Environmental sustainability is a core value here at CSUMB. More than half (60%) of students reported that sustainability was important in their decision to attend CSUMB (2019). As the years go on, the goal of sustainability only continues to grow.
The 2020 Inclusive Sustainability Plan accounts for three main goals: reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve carbon neutrality by 2030, plant 2,030 trees on campus, and divert 90 percent of waste from landfills. Furthermore, this plan aims to reduce environmental injustice, following that “inclusive sustainability is a commitment to improve the environment and the lives of those living within it regardless of income, class or identity” (CSUMB 2020 Campus Sustainability Plan, p. 10). In doing so, CSUMB hopes to not only make environmental improvements, but to deepen the campus understanding of how sustainability and social justice are interconnected.
One way in which the campus seeks to reduce their carbon footprint is in transportation. Globally, transportation is the second-leading source of emissions (CSUMB 2020 Campus Sustainability Plan, p.25). CSUMB offers bike rentals through the Otter Cycle Center, to promote an emissions free commute to school. Additionally, students have access to free local public transportation such as MST network buses and the wave.
CSUMB strives to plant 2,030 trees by 2030. The addition of these trees will not only add visual beauty, but will help to clean the surrounding air, and support the wildlife and natural systems we share our campus with. Campus and student run projects such as invasive plant removal help to get us closer and closer to our goal.
Pollution and waste is something we are all too familiar with. In CSUMB’s effort to divert waste from landfills, ‘recycle’ and ‘compost’ bins are present next to almost every trash can. Additionally, CSUMB is conscious that students moving in and out of campus housing may have excess waste of household items. Campus places emphasis and opportunities for students to donate furniture and other items, in an effort to reduce move out waste by 25%.
CSUMB has several sustainable practices already in place to make campus a more inclusive and sustainable environment. However, we will only continue to improve as we work towards achieving these goals and improving not only the environment, but the campus community.
To read more about the Inclusive Sustainability Plan, click here!
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