July 2024 Newsletter
Our Values
Sustain SC is continuing to bridge the gap between commerce and conservation to create a sustainable future for the state of South Carolina. From purpose-driven leadership to respect, our values are the fundamental beliefs and guiding principles that shape our organization. We're excited to share our new values with you and continue to build upon them together!
Accelerator Open Houses
Last month, Sustain SC hosted our first round of Accelerator Working Group Open Houses! These six virtual sessions allowed Sustain SC to share the incredible progress and work done to date, along with giving our members a way to provide input as we continue to implement the Roadmap to Sustain SC.
These quarterly working sessions will serve as an opportunity for our members to engage even more deeply with Sustain SC as we deliver on our mission to connect the sustainability goals of businesses in South Carolina with local solutions for the benefit of our economy, environment, and people.
If you are a member and interested in participating in these sessions, please contact cynthia@sustainsouthcarolina.org.
The South Carolina General Assembly has approved the FY2024-2025 budget, which reflects a significant commitment to sustainability, conservation, and resilience. We are pleased that these investments align with Sustain South Carolina’s goals and initiatives and will assist us in benefitting our economy, environment, and people. Here are the key budget items that may impact our work and the broader community:
SCOR (South Carolina Office of Resilience)
Disaster Relief and Resilience Reserve Fund: SCOR has been allocated $30 million for the Disaster Relief and Resilience Reserve Fund, with $26 million in one-time proviso funding and $4 million from the one-time capital reserve fund. This fund is essential for enhancing our state's resilience to natural disasters and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
South Carolina Conservation Bank
Conservation Grant Funding: The Conservation Bank will receive $18 million to support conservation grants. This includes $2 million in recurring funds, $10 million in one-time proviso funding, and $6 million from the one-time capital reserve fund. These grants will empower local and regional conservation projects, preserving our natural resources for future generations.
Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
Habitat Protection and Land Conservation: A one-time funding allocation of $10 million has been earmarked for the protection of natural habitats and land conservation efforts. This investment will enhance our ability to preserve vital ecosystems and biodiversity across the state.
Water Conservation Districts Programmatic Support: Recurring funding of $193,358 has been designated for the programmatic support of water conservation districts. This ongoing support is crucial for maintaining and improving water quality and availability.
South Carolina Nexus
SC Nexus Funding: A total of $20 million has been allocated through the South Carolina Department of Commerce, with $5 million in recurring funds (for operations) and $15 million in one-time proviso funding. This initiative is aimed at fostering economic growth and sustainability, creating opportunities for innovative commerce solutions.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel Study
SC Department of Commerce: A study on sustainable aviation fuel has been funded with a $250,000 allocation. This initiative underscores our commitment to exploring and implementing sustainable energy solutions in the aviation sector, contributing to reduced carbon emissions and environmental impact. This study is funded through a proviso directing the Department of Commerce to utilize existing appropriated funds.
Please note that the Governor retains the authority to veto any or all of the above budget items.
We will continue to monitor the legislative process closely and keep you informed of any updates or changes. These budget items represent significant strides in our shared mission to promote sustainability, conservation, and resilience within South Carolina.
June Events Recap
6/3 Sustain SC hosted a Sustainability Toolkit Workshop in collaboration with SC Fraunhofer USA Alliance at the BMW Technical Training Center.
6/11 South Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership and Rolls-Royce led a discussion with Sustain SC at our Energy Optimization Technical Assistance Webinar.
6/19 Sustain SC was honored to present to the South Carolina Mitigation Association and join many Sustain SC members at Norfolk Southern’s Brosnan Forest.
6/22 Sustain SC CEO Leslie Skardon served on a panel at Charleston, Dorchester and Berkeley Counties annual STEMmersion with Congresswoman Nancy Mace and other key officials from the Lowcountry.
6/27 Sustain SC presented to education professionals at the Education and Business Summit in Greenville.
Please help us welcome this month's newest member, Clemson University, to Sustain SC! View all members here.
In The News
BMW, a Sustain SC member, opened its first state-of-the-art press shop to prepare for the assembly of new BMW vehicles at its Spartanburg, South Carolina plant.
Sustain SC Member, Milliken & Company, is hosting a Student Sustainability Career Day on July 17 at its Spartanburg Headquarters. Register at this link by Tuesday, July 9.
Sonoco Products Company, a Sustain SC member, entered an agreement to acquire Eviosys, Europe's leading food cans, ends and closures manufacturer.
In January 2025, the University of South Carolina School of Law will begin offering an 18-hour certificate in Environmental Law & Sustainability fully online.
The South Carolina Department of Commerce is looking for an Executive Director to join its Regional Technology & Innovation Tech Hub.
Upcoming Events
July Membership Event - To Be Announced Soon
August 2024 Technical Assistance Webinar - To Be Announced Soon
September 25, 2024, Energy Event - Save the Date!
Location: To Be Announced Soon
October 24, 2024, 3rd Annual Sustain SC Symposium - Save the Date!
Location: Central Energy, Columbia, SC
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