Sustainability stories from the greater USC community in Los Angeles, the media and other organizations.
How a Fast Food Feast Can Create a Toxic Beast: Investigating the Anthropogenic Impact of Toxic Algae Pseudo-nitzschia
Most of my childhood memories are rooted in the Florida Panhandle—white sand beaches, crystal-clear emerald waters, and vibrant marine life. It felt like paradise. But even amid those idyllic scenes, I remember moments of devastation: the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill, the lingering effects of Hurricane Katrina, and most vividly, the toxic algal blooms.
#FridayFacts: Ep. 2 Rainwater Harvesting Systems
The second episode of our #FridayFacts video series features Paulina Oliva, Professor of Economics and Spatial Sciences at USC Dornsife, who is a recipient of a 2024-2026 Wrigley Institute Faculty Innovation Award. Her research explores a rainwater harvesting system developed in Mexico City as a response to water shortages.
From ocean corals to island foxes, Wrigley Institute experts seek to save threatened species
How USC Sea Grant and partners came together to save two species of fish during the 2025 Los Angeles fires.
Buried Alive: The Secret Life of Deep Earth Microbes
Discover a vast, previously unknown world of microbial life that survives — and even thrives — for hundreds of millions of years in some of the planet’s harshest environments.
Global Climate Change Leadership 2025: Students take the lead as future policy makers
Students from the University of Southern California participated in the Global Climate Change Leadership program hosted by The Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU).
Long Live the Fire Fish
How USC Sea Grant and partners came together to save two species of fish during the 2025 Los Angeles fires.
Wildfires, falling EV interest and transit doubts test L.A. ahead of the 2028 Olympics
The latest USC Dornsife LABarometer survey finds Angelenos grappling with climate stress, doubting transit readiness for the Olympics and losing interest in electric vehicles.
Yo-Ichiro Hakomori is Recipient of SARA California 2025 Design Award
Beyond recognizing excellence in architectural and design projects within California, the SARA awards acknowledge the creativity, innovation, and social impact of architectural and design work.
Building Science Alum Barbara Aguirre on Core Skills for Future Sustainability Pioneers
Her unique background in mechanical engineering, combined with her dual Master’s degree, allows her to bring a fascinating perspective to anything she does with an in-depth understanding of building systems.
AI Unlocks Earth’s Subsurface Mysteries for Smart Energy Applications
As global energy challenges continue to escalate, a pioneering AI-driven study by USC Viterbi researchers offers timely solutions to CO₂ storage and resource management.
USC teams up with ShadeLA coalition to cool Los Angeles ahead of 2028
ShadeLA, a new USC-led initiative, unites civic, academic and community partners to expand urban tree canopy and shade infrastructure — building lasting heat resilience for Angelenos well beyond 2028.
US government may be abandoning the global climate fight, but new leaders are filling the void – including China
Trump’s efforts haven’t sunk global efforts to fight climate change — instead, new leaders are stepping up and working together, even within the US.
Raising the Stakes of Sustainability
As a graduating master’s student researching carbon capture and clean energy production, Aadish Panchmia is determined to make a difference.
An Adventurer’s Approach to Academic Achievement
Natalia Ratner, a graduating student studying environmental engineering, has combined a superstar academic career with experience in community teaching and sustainable farming.
Harnessing the Power of Ocean Energy
Sophie Beitel, a graduating student studying environmental engineering, is helping to design and build a deep-sea battery.
From Sea to Space: NASA preps for moon missions at Wrigley Marine Science Center
NASA has long used underwater training to simulate the zero-gravity environment of outer space.
In His Element: Ariel Nehoray ’25 fuses passions for chemistry and the environment
Graduating senior Ariel Nehoray talks about charting his own path through the USC Environmental Studies Program.
USC Wrigley Institute selects fellows for 2025 Storymakers program
Established researchers from the UK and across North America will complete a weeklong intensive in environmental storytelling.
Fire and Water: USC Viterbi Magazine
Read stories of engineering resilience in the midst of fires, drought and climate change.
Let It Flow: Building the World’s Largest Recycling Plant ― in Orange County
USC Viterbi alumnus Michael Markus oversaw the facility’s design and construction, ensuring a reliable water supply to a parched county.
How to Build a More Resilient City of Angels
From 3D printing houses to retardant firing artillery, USC Viterbi engineers offer 10 potential solutions for the future.
Sydnee Yu named USC Price School valedictorian
Yu connects art to climate change and urban planning – while being a good role model for her little sisters.
Science in the Studio: Experimental photography exhibit captures hidden side of water pollution
A scientist’s fieldwork and an artist’s vision come together to tell a story of environmental impact.
USC’s sustainability initiatives produce remarkable results
EARTH MONTH: The practical action USC has taken to become more sustainable is making a real impact. Read the story and watch the videos.
USC Researchers Develop Plastic Substitute from Mineral Found in Seashells
Biomedical engineers at USC Viterbi have created a new biocompatible material that is safe for marine life and avoids harmful microplastics.
Making climate action “cheaper, faster, better”
Climate investor, former presidential candidate and best-selling author Tom Steyer has had a career spanning many disciplines, but at the core of his work is a relentless commitment to climate action, which he sees as both a necessity and a historic economic opportunity.