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Congratulations, Green Grads!

Graduation Pledge

UC San Diego Sustainability has joined the Graduation Pledge Alliance that encourages graduating seniors to sign a graduation pledge promising to consider the consequences of our workplace decisions and how we might work toward creating a sustainable society through our work for generations to come. As forbearers of the future, students are in an ideal position to consciously make individual contributions and, collectively, make a significant difference in the world. Founded in 1987 at Humboldt State University, the Graduation Pledge Alliance aimed to unite graduating students across America to push for a more inclusive and socially responsible workplace. Now , the alliance is based at Bentley University and has gained over 300,000 signatories—spreading to Europe, Canada and Asia.

Take the Pledge

Are you part of the graduating Class of 2023? If so, take this pledge to commit to being socially and environmentally responsible beyond UC San Diego.


“I pledge to explore and take into account the social and environmental consequences of any job I consider and will try to improve these aspects of any organizations for which I work.”

Pledge Now

Celebrate Sustainably!

  • Send digital cards/announcements instead of physical copies.
  • Consider wearing secondhand clothing, like a thrifted tie or a borrowed cap and gown.
  • Avoid single-use items, like confetti, confetti canons, balloons, etc., especially those with graduation year and/or date permanently printed on them; use biodegradable confetti, flower petals or leaves.
  • Find reusable items, like chalkboard signs or generic graduation message props.
  • Look for signs posted around campus encouraging you not to litter.

How to Make Change

The Graduation Pledge Alliance offers several resources for pledge signers:

Tips for implementing sustainable habits:

  • Take a self assessment: Berkeley Cool Climate Calculator
  • Review the UN Sustainable Goals
  • Transportation
    • Take public transportation when possible.
    • Find carpool groups in your community.
    • Walk to stores, parks, and trails near you.
    • Choose an electric car or hybrid.
  • Energy and Water
    • Reduce phantom loads by unplugging items when not in use.
    • Take shorter showers.
    • Wash clothes in cold water during a non-peak time of the day.
    • Regulate household temperature using windows, doors and fans before using HVAC systems.
  • Waste and Recycling
    • Reduce and reuse before you recycle.
    • Find out how to recycle specialty items like plastic film and e-waste.
    • Reduce your carbon footprint by going meatless as often as possible.
    • Eliminate single-use items like plastic water bottles and straws.

More Information

For more information, email sustain@ucsd.edu.