UC San Diego Receives SANDAG Diamond Award for Green Commuting Efforts

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The University of California San Diego has received a Diamond Award from the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) in recognition of the campus’ commitment to alternative forms of transportation. Fifty-seven percent of UC San Diego commuters use transportation other than single-occupant vehicles, reducing annual transportation-related CO2 emissions by approximately 55,000 metric tons. Alternative transportation methods include public transit, campus shuttles, carpool, vanpool, Coaster Club, Pedal Club, carsharing, Zimride, ride-matching access, cycling, etc.

“UC San Diego is committed to reducing our carbon footprint and minimizing commuter traffic,” said Gary Matthews, vice chancellor for Resource Management and Planning. “We are honored to receive SANDAG’s Diamond Award for our efforts to promote sustainable and efficient transportation.”

UC San Diego is one of only sixteen employers to be awarded a Diamond Award in the Platinum Tier, the highest level of commuter sustainability. The campus has received 13 Diamond Awards in the past 15 years. The Diamond Awards are presented by the SANDAG iCommute program, which provides a variety of commuter assistance and employer services to help reduce traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions. The Diamond Awards program recognizes employers as they meet milestones in the development of their commuter benefits programs. The program is based on a points system tied to employer engagement, Rideshare Challenge participation, and shifts in employee transportation choices.