The UCSB Laboratory Researchers and Technical Staff (LabRATS) and the Sustainable Procurement Teams have developed an online surplus equipment web site where campus departments can post equipment they no longer use and obtain needed equipment at no cost.
For more information, you can visit the UCSB Surplus Inventory Program web site at http://sustainability.ucsb.edu/surplus
We hope you find it useful!
*The surplus web site was funded by a grant from The Green Initiative Fund.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
UN Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen
A few student members of UCSB's Environmental Affairs Board will be headed to Copenhagen, Denmark next week to participate in the UN's pivotal meeting to discuss a new international climate protocol before the Kyoto Protocol expires in 2012.
We wish the student envoy safe travels and hope they have a wonderful experience!
For more information on the UC Climate Change Conference, please visit their web site: http://www.cop15.dk/
UPDATE: Check out the EAB students' blog about their experience in Copenhagen: http://eabatcop.blogspot.com/
We wish the student envoy safe travels and hope they have a wonderful experience!
For more information on the UC Climate Change Conference, please visit their web site: http://www.cop15.dk/
UPDATE: Check out the EAB students' blog about their experience in Copenhagen: http://eabatcop.blogspot.com/
White House Youth Clean Energy Forum - Webcast
Information provided in an email from UCOP:
On December 2, 100 youth leaders from around the country will join Obama's top advisor - including Sectretary of Energy Chu, Secretary of the Interior Salazar, Secretary of Labor Solis, and EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson - for a forum at the White House to discuss the clean energy economy and how young people can play a critical role.
The forum will be streaming live on the White House web site: www.whitehouse.gov/live and on Facebook from 4:00-7:00 pm Eastern time (1:00-4:00 Pacific).
Please spread the word to any students, staff, or faculty interested in this issue (I am under the impression you are able to participate in the discussion via the webcast).
On December 2, 100 youth leaders from around the country will join Obama's top advisor - including Sectretary of Energy Chu, Secretary of the Interior Salazar, Secretary of Labor Solis, and EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson - for a forum at the White House to discuss the clean energy economy and how young people can play a critical role.
The forum will be streaming live on the White House web site: www.whitehouse.gov/live and on Facebook from 4:00-7:00 pm Eastern time (1:00-4:00 Pacific).
Please spread the word to any students, staff, or faculty interested in this issue (I am under the impression you are able to participate in the discussion via the webcast).
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Climate Action Plan Posted
The UCSB Climate Action Plan has been approved by the Chancellor's Sustainability Committee and is now posted for public viewing.
Please click here to read the CAP report.
Please click here to read the CAP report.
Rain Barrel Sale
Just in time for the rainy season:
The County and City of Santa Barbara are hosting a rain barrel sale on Saturday, November 21 between 10:00 am-2:00 pm in the SBCC Lot #3 (across from Ledbetter Beach). The barrels are $50 including tax (cash or check only). They plan to sell out, so show up early!
More information: http://www.sbwater.org/rainbarrel/
The County and City of Santa Barbara are hosting a rain barrel sale on Saturday, November 21 between 10:00 am-2:00 pm in the SBCC Lot #3 (across from Ledbetter Beach). The barrels are $50 including tax (cash or check only). They plan to sell out, so show up early!
More information: http://www.sbwater.org/rainbarrel/
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Call for Papers: Oil + Water: The Case of Southern California
As part of its "Oil + Water" series, the Interdisciplinary Humanities Center at UC Santa Barbara will be holding a two-day conference on "Oil + Water: The Case of Southern California" on April 9 and 10, 2010.
The conference will explore how these two elements have created and transformed the history and culture of Southern California; speakers may address both elements, or focus on either oil or water. Topics can range widely and could include the history of oil in Southern California; culture’s role in Southern California’s use of oil and water; surfing; car culture; marine life and coastal development; suburbia and urban planning; water use and ownership; oil production and the depletion of water reserves; oil, water and the politics of race in Southern California; Southern California after oil; oil, water and agriculture in Southern California; global networks of exchange in oil and water that involve Southern California; and eco-activism in Southern California. Papers should be 20 minutes long.
Application: please send a cv and one page abstract to oilandwaterUCSB@gmail.com.
Application Deadline: January 15, 2010
The conference will explore how these two elements have created and transformed the history and culture of Southern California; speakers may address both elements, or focus on either oil or water. Topics can range widely and could include the history of oil in Southern California; culture’s role in Southern California’s use of oil and water; surfing; car culture; marine life and coastal development; suburbia and urban planning; water use and ownership; oil production and the depletion of water reserves; oil, water and the politics of race in Southern California; Southern California after oil; oil, water and agriculture in Southern California; global networks of exchange in oil and water that involve Southern California; and eco-activism in Southern California. Papers should be 20 minutes long.
Application: please send a cv and one page abstract to oilandwaterUCSB@gmail.com.
Application Deadline: January 15, 2010
No Impact Man Premier
No Impact Man
Tuesday, November 10 @ 7:30 pm
Campbell Hall
In research for his book, newly self-proclaimed environmentalist and author Colin Beavan vows to make as little environmental impact as possible for one year: no more automated transportation, no more electricity, no more non-local food and no more material consumption. That is, until his espresso-guzzling, retail-worshipping wife Michelle and their two year-old daughter are dragged into the fray. “Proof that ‘eco’ and ‘entertainment’ aren’t mutually exclusive” (Variety), this charming film provides a candid account of one family’s struggle with their radical lifestyle change.
Tuesday, November 10 @ 7:30 pm
Campbell Hall
In research for his book, newly self-proclaimed environmentalist and author Colin Beavan vows to make as little environmental impact as possible for one year: no more automated transportation, no more electricity, no more non-local food and no more material consumption. That is, until his espresso-guzzling, retail-worshipping wife Michelle and their two year-old daughter are dragged into the fray. “Proof that ‘eco’ and ‘entertainment’ aren’t mutually exclusive” (Variety), this charming film provides a candid account of one family’s struggle with their radical lifestyle change.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
City, Country, Industry, Agriculture: On the Road with Roy Stryker
In conjunction with the IHC’s Oil + Water series, the University Art Museum presents:
City, Country, Industry, Agriculture: On the Road with Roy Stryker
A photography exhibit on view at the IHC and Cheadle Hall 2217 through winter term
Between 1935 and 1950, one person helped compile a vast compendium of more than 340,000 highway images. He was not a photographer, but rather an economics professor named Roy Stryker. An innovative educator, Stryker employed documentary photography to bring a sociological edge to his classroom instruction. In 1935, Stryker left his post at Columbia University to "create a pictorial encyclopedia of American agriculture" under the auspices of the government’s Resettlement Administration (later the Farm Security Administration). For Stryker agriculture included images of the life around it. His archive, with pictures by such noted photographers as Dorthea Lange, Walker Evans, and Ben Shahn, became a portrait of the nation during the Depression.
Seven years later, the political tide turned and New Deal programs waned, Stryker accepted a similar position with a very dissimilar entity: Standard Oil of New Jersey (SONJ). This corporate shift, occupied Stryker until 1950. At SONJ, Stryker was not content to serve as a public relations lens for the large corporation; he instructed his coterie of artists that they were, "photographing America" and "recording history." Indeed, by the end of his seven year employment with Standard Oil, Stryker coordinated 70,000 documentary images that often only tangentially referenced the oil industry. Bus stops and bridges, tourist courts and diners joined images of filling stations and fresh asphalt. Together the images, by noted photographers such as Esther Bubley, Gordon Parks, and John Vachon, capture the culture of the road: the highway, a region described by Professor Ulrich Keller as, "neither city nor country, industry nor agriculture, but the conveyer belt between the two."
The photographs are on view in the IHC’s Crowell Reading Room and Research Seminar Room, and near the offices of the College of Letters & Science (Cheadle Hall 2217), come from the vast photographic holding of UC Santa Barbara’s University Art Museum.
City, Country, Industry, Agriculture: On the Road with Roy Stryker
A photography exhibit on view at the IHC and Cheadle Hall 2217 through winter term
Between 1935 and 1950, one person helped compile a vast compendium of more than 340,000 highway images. He was not a photographer, but rather an economics professor named Roy Stryker. An innovative educator, Stryker employed documentary photography to bring a sociological edge to his classroom instruction. In 1935, Stryker left his post at Columbia University to "create a pictorial encyclopedia of American agriculture" under the auspices of the government’s Resettlement Administration (later the Farm Security Administration). For Stryker agriculture included images of the life around it. His archive, with pictures by such noted photographers as Dorthea Lange, Walker Evans, and Ben Shahn, became a portrait of the nation during the Depression.
Seven years later, the political tide turned and New Deal programs waned, Stryker accepted a similar position with a very dissimilar entity: Standard Oil of New Jersey (SONJ). This corporate shift, occupied Stryker until 1950. At SONJ, Stryker was not content to serve as a public relations lens for the large corporation; he instructed his coterie of artists that they were, "photographing America" and "recording history." Indeed, by the end of his seven year employment with Standard Oil, Stryker coordinated 70,000 documentary images that often only tangentially referenced the oil industry. Bus stops and bridges, tourist courts and diners joined images of filling stations and fresh asphalt. Together the images, by noted photographers such as Esther Bubley, Gordon Parks, and John Vachon, capture the culture of the road: the highway, a region described by Professor Ulrich Keller as, "neither city nor country, industry nor agriculture, but the conveyer belt between the two."
The photographs are on view in the IHC’s Crowell Reading Room and Research Seminar Room, and near the offices of the College of Letters & Science (Cheadle Hall 2217), come from the vast photographic holding of UC Santa Barbara’s University Art Museum.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Trayless Dining, Composting Projects Are Sustainability Successes at UCSB
Two of UC Santa Barbara's latest sustainability projects –– trayless dining and composting –– are proving to be very successful, enhancing UCSB's reputation as one of the greenest campuses in the country. Full story...
Monday, November 2, 2009
Imagining Design After Oil - All Day Event
On Friday, November 6 the UC Santa Barbara Interdisciplinary Humanities Center (IHC) is holding a one day conference on "Imagining Design After Oil." The conference will be held in the McCune Conference Room (6020 HSSB) from 9-5:30.
The day will focus on designing for a post-carbon future, on new materials and technologies that are changing design, and on educating students about sustainable design. Sheila Kennedy of MIT and David Gissen of California College of Arts will be the key note speakers.
A number of Santa Barbara architects will be presenting including: Ken Radtkey, Blackbird Architects, Inc.; Dennis Thompson, Thompson Naylor Architects; and Susan Van Atta, Van Atta Associates.
Imagining Design After Oil is part of a year-long public program at the IHC on Oil + Water. The program commemorates the 40th anniversary of the Santa Barbara oil spill, and provides an opportunity to examine the impact of these two resources on the history, economy, and culture of California and the world.
For more information on Oil + Water and all UCSB programs linked to it go to http://www.ihc.ucsb.edu/.
The day will focus on designing for a post-carbon future, on new materials and technologies that are changing design, and on educating students about sustainable design. Sheila Kennedy of MIT and David Gissen of California College of Arts will be the key note speakers.
A number of Santa Barbara architects will be presenting including: Ken Radtkey, Blackbird Architects, Inc.; Dennis Thompson, Thompson Naylor Architects; and Susan Van Atta, Van Atta Associates.
Imagining Design After Oil is part of a year-long public program at the IHC on Oil + Water. The program commemorates the 40th anniversary of the Santa Barbara oil spill, and provides an opportunity to examine the impact of these two resources on the history, economy, and culture of California and the world.
For more information on Oil + Water and all UCSB programs linked to it go to http://www.ihc.ucsb.edu/.
First-ever Power Hour
Associate Director of Utility & Energy Services David McHale and LEED Program Manager Jordan Sager have set up some time to discuss and answer questions about energy and green building projects going on around the campus.
Any student, staff, or faculty is welcome to attend the event on Friday, November 6 at 11:00 am in the UCen Lobero Room.
If you are considering a TGIF project that addresses energy on campus, this is the perfect opportunity have your questions answered and to assess your idea's viability.
Come with questions!
Any student, staff, or faculty is welcome to attend the event on Friday, November 6 at 11:00 am in the UCen Lobero Room.
If you are considering a TGIF project that addresses energy on campus, this is the perfect opportunity have your questions answered and to assess your idea's viability.
Come with questions!
TGIF Applications Now Available
The Green Initiative Fund (TGIF) is now accepting grant applications for campus sustainability projects that help reduce UCSB's impact on the environment.
The student-fee supported fund will award approximately $150,000 to 10-12 projects. All UCSB students, staff, and faculty are eligible to apply.
For more information or to obtain the application, please visit the TGIF site.
The deadline for submission is Monday, January 25.
The student-fee supported fund will award approximately $150,000 to 10-12 projects. All UCSB students, staff, and faculty are eligible to apply.
For more information or to obtain the application, please visit the TGIF site.
The deadline for submission is Monday, January 25.
Monday, October 26, 2009
IEE Seminar: Building Energy Performance and Efficiency: Fact or Fiction?
MARTIN FISCHER
Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Stanford University
Director, Center for Integrated Facility Engineering (CIFE)
Coordinator, Building Energy Efficiency Research, Precourt Energy Efficiency Center
Seminar Title:
Building Energy Performance and Efficiency: Fact or Fiction?
October 28, 2009 4:00PM ESB 1001
Abstract
Are our buildings as energy-efficient as designed, performing as well as possible? We usually don't know. Ill-defined performance metrics, fragmented building design-construction-operations processes, and a lack of building and energy performance data at multiple scales make it difficult to achieve or even document good energy performance or explain why a building is performing in a particular way. This seminar will describe cost and value-based metrics for building energy performance and methods for predicting and measuring energy performance at the building system, whole building, campus, and regional levels developed at the Precourt Energy Efficiency Center and the Center for Integrated Facility Engineering at Stanford University. The goal of the work is to close the loop between building performance goals and actual performance through digital models of buildings and their predicted and actual energy performance.
Biography
Martin Fischer is Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Stanford University. He also serves as the Director of the Center for Integrated Facility Engineering (CIFE). CIFE is the world-leading, industry-sponsored, academic research centre on virtual design and construction. Dr Fischer is known globally for his work and leadership in developing virtual 4D modeling (time plus 3D) methods to improve project planning, enhance facility life-cycle performance, increase the productivity of project teams, and further the sustainability of the built environment. His research results have been used by many small and large industrial and government organizations around the world. He has lived and worked in Europe, South America, North America and Asia. Dr Fischer holds a PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering and a MS
in Industrial Engineering from Stanford University, and a Diploma in Civil Engineering from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, Switzerland.
For complete event information, visit www.iee.ucsb.edu
Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Stanford University
Director, Center for Integrated Facility Engineering (CIFE)
Coordinator, Building Energy Efficiency Research, Precourt Energy Efficiency Center
Seminar Title:
Building Energy Performance and Efficiency: Fact or Fiction?
October 28, 2009 4:00PM ESB 1001
Abstract
Are our buildings as energy-efficient as designed, performing as well as possible? We usually don't know. Ill-defined performance metrics, fragmented building design-construction-operations processes, and a lack of building and energy performance data at multiple scales make it difficult to achieve or even document good energy performance or explain why a building is performing in a particular way. This seminar will describe cost and value-based metrics for building energy performance and methods for predicting and measuring energy performance at the building system, whole building, campus, and regional levels developed at the Precourt Energy Efficiency Center and the Center for Integrated Facility Engineering at Stanford University. The goal of the work is to close the loop between building performance goals and actual performance through digital models of buildings and their predicted and actual energy performance.
Biography
Martin Fischer is Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Stanford University. He also serves as the Director of the Center for Integrated Facility Engineering (CIFE). CIFE is the world-leading, industry-sponsored, academic research centre on virtual design and construction. Dr Fischer is known globally for his work and leadership in developing virtual 4D modeling (time plus 3D) methods to improve project planning, enhance facility life-cycle performance, increase the productivity of project teams, and further the sustainability of the built environment. His research results have been used by many small and large industrial and government organizations around the world. He has lived and worked in Europe, South America, North America and Asia. Dr Fischer holds a PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering and a MS
in Industrial Engineering from Stanford University, and a Diploma in Civil Engineering from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, Switzerland.
For complete event information, visit www.iee.ucsb.edu
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Campus-wide Sustainability Meeting
Campus-wide Sustainability Update Meeting
Friday, October 30 @ 9:00 a.m.*
Ellison Hall, Room 2620 (North Wing)
*Please note time change.
Meeting Agenda
Welcome
New logo (Jill) – 2 min
Update on policies before Chancellor (Bruce/Ron) – 2 min
Update on Climate Action Plan (Jill) – 2 min
Introduce Sustainability Champions – 10 min
Update on composting pilot program (Mark R) – 10 min
Trayless dining & impacts of the program (Mark R) – 10 min
Bren Hall Double Platinum Process & LEED EB (Jordan/Jeff) – 25 min
Update on Strategic Energy Partnership (David) – 10 min
LabRATS plan for the year (Amorette) – 10 min
PACES Program (sustainability interns) – 10 min
New logo (Jill) – 2 min
Update on policies before Chancellor (Bruce/Ron) – 2 min
Update on Climate Action Plan (Jill) – 2 min
Introduce Sustainability Champions – 10 min
Update on composting pilot program (Mark R) – 10 min
Trayless dining & impacts of the program (Mark R) – 10 min
Bren Hall Double Platinum Process & LEED EB (Jordan/Jeff) – 25 min
Update on Strategic Energy Partnership (David) – 10 min
LabRATS plan for the year (Amorette) – 10 min
PACES Program (sustainability interns) – 10 min
Monday, October 19, 2009
H&RS Hosting Sustainability Week
Housing & Residential Services - Dining Services will be hosting a full week of events, including composting displays, local produce displays, alternative fuel vehicle displays, etc.
The events will take place in the campus dining facilities and will take place October 19 through October 23.
If you would like to see the schedule of events, send Jill Richardson an email.
(I can't seem to find a way to attach the schedule to the blog!)
The events will take place in the campus dining facilities and will take place October 19 through October 23.
If you would like to see the schedule of events, send Jill Richardson an email.
(I can't seem to find a way to attach the schedule to the blog!)
IHC's Oil + Water Series
Oil + Water: IHC theme for 2009-20010
This year, the Interdisciplinary Humanities Center will present a series of programs on the theme Oil + Water. Oil + Water commemorates the 40th anniversary of the Santa Barbara oil spill, and provides an opportunity to examine the impact of these two resources on the history, economy, and culture of California and the world. Topics will range from dams to surfing to plastics to car culture; the program will examine oil and water in a global as well as local context.
There are several screenings, panels, talks, etc. over the next few weeks.
Click here for a Schedule of Events.
This year, the Interdisciplinary Humanities Center will present a series of programs on the theme Oil + Water. Oil + Water commemorates the 40th anniversary of the Santa Barbara oil spill, and provides an opportunity to examine the impact of these two resources on the history, economy, and culture of California and the world. Topics will range from dams to surfing to plastics to car culture; the program will examine oil and water in a global as well as local context.
There are several screenings, panels, talks, etc. over the next few weeks.
Click here for a Schedule of Events.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Composting Workshop
The BSSC (Bren School Sustainability Committee) will be hosting its first composting workshop of the year. Come learn about the Can-O-Worms Worm Composter, help us harvest our castings, meet our worms, and meet other composters within the UCSB community!
Tuesday, October 20
12:30-2:30pm
Bren Hall north lawn
Tuesday, October 20
12:30-2:30pm
Bren Hall north lawn
World Food Day Events
World Food Day Schedule, October 16th
World Food Day is a worldwide event designed to increase awareness, understanding and informed, year-around action to alleviate hunger.
9:00am-12:30pm, Bren 1414: TGIF (The Green Initiative Fund) Real Food Challenge is hosting a screening of the World Food Day teleconference, "Global Food Crisis: Opportunities, Responsibilities and Solutions" (check website for more information http://www.worldfooddayusa.org/CMS/2955.aspx) and is inviting students, staff, faculty, and community members to engage in a critical discussion of proposed solutions and approaches to alleviating global food problems. Drop-ins are welcome, as intermittent discussion will occur between segments of the screening. Professor David Cleveland (Environmental Studies) and TGIF Sustainable Food Coordinator Megan Carney (Anthropology) will facilitate discussion.
12:45-2:00, Annex Lawn: EAB, the Human Rights Coalition, and TGIF Real Food Challenge is hosting a campus-wide Eat-In (http://eat-ins.org/) to break bread and bring focused discussion to the environmental and social dimensions of World Food Day. There will also be a Environmental and Indigenous Rights Expo at this same location from 11:00-1:30.
For more information, contact Megan Carney, megcarney@gmail.com or Katharine Brown kathardbrown@gmail.com.
Co-Sponsored by The Donald Bren School of Environmental Science & Management
World Food Day is a worldwide event designed to increase awareness, understanding and informed, year-around action to alleviate hunger.
9:00am-12:30pm, Bren 1414: TGIF (The Green Initiative Fund) Real Food Challenge is hosting a screening of the World Food Day teleconference, "Global Food Crisis: Opportunities, Responsibilities and Solutions" (check website for more information http://www.worldfooddayusa.org/CMS/2955.aspx) and is inviting students, staff, faculty, and community members to engage in a critical discussion of proposed solutions and approaches to alleviating global food problems. Drop-ins are welcome, as intermittent discussion will occur between segments of the screening. Professor David Cleveland (Environmental Studies) and TGIF Sustainable Food Coordinator Megan Carney (Anthropology) will facilitate discussion.
12:45-2:00, Annex Lawn: EAB, the Human Rights Coalition, and TGIF Real Food Challenge is hosting a campus-wide Eat-In (http://eat-ins.org/) to break bread and bring focused discussion to the environmental and social dimensions of World Food Day. There will also be a Environmental and Indigenous Rights Expo at this same location from 11:00-1:30.
For more information, contact Megan Carney, megcarney@gmail.com or Katharine Brown kathardbrown@gmail.com.
Co-Sponsored by The Donald Bren School of Environmental Science & Management
IHC Open House
The Interdisciplinary Humanities Center invites you to join them for their 6th annual Open House. Meet new faculty, new fellows, and staff. Learn about IHC's tw new programs this year: Oil + Water and The Future of the University. Find out about collaborative research programs and funding opportunities. Enjoy good food, wine, and conversation.
Thursday, October 15
3:00-5:00 pm
McCune Conference Room (HSSB 6020)
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Lecture by Catherine Gautier: Why Oil and Water?
THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELED
Thursday, October 22 @ 4:00 pm
McCune Conference Room - HSSB 6020
Summary of the talk:
Unsustainable use of oil and water by a rapidly growing global population is creating a serious environmental security challenge. Intensified competition for these dwindling resources threatens global security. Oil and water are intertwined in many ways. Each needs the other in its respective extraction process, and the use of one accelerates the depletion of the other. Oil and water are also linked through climate change. Oil burning emits carbon dioxide responsible for the enhanced greenhouse effect and consequent global warming that modifies the water cycle and water availability.
The looming peak in oil represents a visible surrogate for most natural resource depletion, more conspicuously advertised than upcoming water shortages. One must question why "peak oil" has become a proxy for a host of dwindling Earth resources that may have dramatic consequences for humanity. While oil is considered a catalyst for economic growth and often associated with wealth and power, water tends to be conceived as a commons, inspiring hope for multinational cooperation around water resources. In this presentation, we will lay the groundwork for the IHC’s Oil + Water series. We will also reflect, together, on the problem of translating the scientific data relevant to these challenges to humanists.
Thursday, October 22 @ 4:00 pm
McCune Conference Room - HSSB 6020
Summary of the talk:
Unsustainable use of oil and water by a rapidly growing global population is creating a serious environmental security challenge. Intensified competition for these dwindling resources threatens global security. Oil and water are intertwined in many ways. Each needs the other in its respective extraction process, and the use of one accelerates the depletion of the other. Oil and water are also linked through climate change. Oil burning emits carbon dioxide responsible for the enhanced greenhouse effect and consequent global warming that modifies the water cycle and water availability.
The looming peak in oil represents a visible surrogate for most natural resource depletion, more conspicuously advertised than upcoming water shortages. One must question why "peak oil" has become a proxy for a host of dwindling Earth resources that may have dramatic consequences for humanity. While oil is considered a catalyst for economic growth and often associated with wealth and power, water tends to be conceived as a commons, inspiring hope for multinational cooperation around water resources. In this presentation, we will lay the groundwork for the IHC’s Oil + Water series. We will also reflect, together, on the problem of translating the scientific data relevant to these challenges to humanists.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
This Way to Sustainability Conference - Registration
This Way to Sustainability V Conference
at California State University, Chico
November 5-8, 2009
This annual event is hosted by CSU, Chico, Butte Community College, and the Associated Student groups of each.
Online Registration is NOW OPEN through October 30, 2009
Please visit our web site at http://www.csuchico.edu/sustainablefuture/conference/ to view the conference schedule and to register online. This year we have an exciting lineup of speakers, workshops, tours, and sessions that you won't want to miss!
Registration fees for This Way to Sustainability Conference V include participation in all sessions, featured keynotes, tours, and workshops (some workshops or tours may require separate registration, please see schedule for details).
If you are a student and would like to become a conference volunteer please contact Deanna Dottai at twts@csuchico.edu.
at California State University, Chico
November 5-8, 2009
This annual event is hosted by CSU, Chico, Butte Community College, and the Associated Student groups of each.
Online Registration is NOW OPEN through October 30, 2009
Please visit our web site at http://www.csuchico.edu/sustainablefuture/conference/ to view the conference schedule and to register online. This year we have an exciting lineup of speakers, workshops, tours, and sessions that you won't want to miss!
Registration fees for This Way to Sustainability Conference V include participation in all sessions, featured keynotes, tours, and workshops (some workshops or tours may require separate registration, please see schedule for details).
Registration fees are as follows:
* Students are FREE! Includes all university, college, and community college students, and K-12 students with a valid student ID card or with a registered faculty member
* Faculty/Staff: $25.00 per person
* General Audience: $25.00 per person
* Speakers/Moderators: Free, pre-registration required to validate status
If you are a student and would like to become a conference volunteer please contact Deanna Dottai at twts@csuchico.edu.
A&L Sustainability-Related Movies/Lectures in October
UCSB Arts & Lectures will be presenting a few sustainability-related movies and lectures in October that might be of interest to some of you:
October 8: Food, Inc. - Filmmaker Robert Kenner exposes the highly-mechanized underbelly that is our nation’s food supply.
October 15: Telluride Mountain Film Festival - Telluride Mountainfilm was launched 30 years ago by a group of climbers and friends dedicated to educating and inspiring audiences about issues that matter, cultures worth exploring, environments worth preserving and conversations worth sustaining.
October 19: Silvia Earle - Sustainable Seas: The Vision and the Reality - Earle will share her joy of discovery through images and stories from her more than 30-year aquatic career – and express how that joy can help save the world.
October 20: Crude: The Real Price of Oil - This cinéma-vérité feature is the epic story of one of the largest and most controversial legal cases on the planet, the infamous $27 billion “Amazon Chernobyl” case in the jungles of Ecuador.
October 20: Flow - For the Love of Water - This award-winning documentary builds a case against the growing privatization of the world’s dwindling fresh water supply with an unflinching focus on politics, pollution and human rights.
October 8: Food, Inc. - Filmmaker Robert Kenner exposes the highly-mechanized underbelly that is our nation’s food supply.
October 15: Telluride Mountain Film Festival - Telluride Mountainfilm was launched 30 years ago by a group of climbers and friends dedicated to educating and inspiring audiences about issues that matter, cultures worth exploring, environments worth preserving and conversations worth sustaining.
October 19: Silvia Earle - Sustainable Seas: The Vision and the Reality - Earle will share her joy of discovery through images and stories from her more than 30-year aquatic career – and express how that joy can help save the world.
October 20: Crude: The Real Price of Oil - This cinéma-vérité feature is the epic story of one of the largest and most controversial legal cases on the planet, the infamous $27 billion “Amazon Chernobyl” case in the jungles of Ecuador.
October 20: Flow - For the Love of Water - This award-winning documentary builds a case against the growing privatization of the world’s dwindling fresh water supply with an unflinching focus on politics, pollution and human rights.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
CCBER's Collections Profiled on NPR
The local NPR station interviewed Drs. Jennifer Thorsch and Carla D'Antonio on CCBER's extensive biological collections and the NSF grant they just received to improve storage of all the plant and animal specimens they house.
Click here to listen to the interview. It'll make you want to go down to Harder Stadium to check it out!
Click here to listen to the interview. It'll make you want to go down to Harder Stadium to check it out!
Friday, September 25, 2009
Coastal Fund Accepting Applications
APPLY FOR FUNDING THROUGH UCSB COASTAL FUND!
The UCSB Associated Students Coastal Fund is currently accepting applications for funding. The Coastal Fund, a student-led funding entity, provides support to enhance, protect and restore the shoreline associated with UCSB through preservation, education, open access, research, and restoration.
Funds can be requested for community and campus related programs and projects, undergraduate and graduate research, or for fundraising activities for student organizations. Over $320,000 is distributed annually. Proposals are accepted at the beginning of each quarter and must advance the Coastal Fund Mission to be eligible.
The FALL 2009 Funding Cycle deadline is Friday, October 2, 2009.
If you are interested in learning more about the AS Coastal Fund, Fall Quarter paid internships with our partners, getting involved, or applying for funding, contact Scott Bull at coastalfund@gmail.org or visit http://www.coastalfund.org/
The UCSB Associated Students Coastal Fund is currently accepting applications for funding. The Coastal Fund, a student-led funding entity, provides support to enhance, protect and restore the shoreline associated with UCSB through preservation, education, open access, research, and restoration.
Funds can be requested for community and campus related programs and projects, undergraduate and graduate research, or for fundraising activities for student organizations. Over $320,000 is distributed annually. Proposals are accepted at the beginning of each quarter and must advance the Coastal Fund Mission to be eligible.
The FALL 2009 Funding Cycle deadline is Friday, October 2, 2009.
If you are interested in learning more about the AS Coastal Fund, Fall Quarter paid internships with our partners, getting involved, or applying for funding, contact Scott Bull at coastalfund@gmail.org or visit http://www.coastalfund.org/
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Emerging Green Builders
Join Santa Barbara Emerging Green Builders (EGB)
Thursday, October 1st at 5:30 in Bren Hall (room TBD) to learn more and ask questions.
* Are you interested in green buildings?
* Are you concerned that buildings are the number 1 contributor to Greenhouse Gas emissions in the US, and use over 70% of the nation's electricity?
* Are you interested in green building design, engineering, efficiency, and operations?
* Do you want to learn more about the United States Green Building Council, LEED certifications, and how you can get involved?
If so, come and join us for Santa Barbara Emerging Green Builders' first meeting of the '09-'10 school year!
Anyone and everyone who is interested in becoming more involved in green building, from any discipline or background, regardless of age or experience, is welcome to get involved. Most EGB groups around the country are comprised of students and young professionals, but we also welcome seasoned professionals who are new to the green building industry.
For more information, check out: http://www.usgbc.org/egb
Email Jordan Sager, jordan.sager@pf.ucsb.edu to get involved.
Hope to see you there!
Real Food Challenge Internship Opportunities
The Green Initiative Fund (TGIF) Real Food Challenge Project
Call for Applicants
Research Interns (2-3 positions available)
Research interns will work with the Sustainable Food Coordinator to accomplish the following: gather data to measure the carbon footprint of dining services at UCSB; develop criteria for evaluating the greenhouse gas emissions of particular food items for the Real Food Calculator; investigate the relationship of agricultural and food systems to climate change; interview campus and community members regarding attitudes toward food and climate change.
Marketing and Outreach Interns
Call for Applicants
Research Interns (2-3 positions available)
Research interns will work with the Sustainable Food Coordinator to accomplish the following: gather data to measure the carbon footprint of dining services at UCSB; develop criteria for evaluating the greenhouse gas emissions of particular food items for the Real Food Calculator; investigate the relationship of agricultural and food systems to climate change; interview campus and community members regarding attitudes toward food and climate change.
Marketing and Outreach Interns
Internal (2 positions available)
Internal marketing and outreach coordinators will work with the Sustainable Food Coordinator and dining service directors to design materials and campaign strategies for communicating with residents and staff at the UCSB residence halls and clients of residential dining facilities around issues of food, dietary behaviors and climate change. Some experience and interest in design and/or artistic capabilities are preferred. First-year students are welcomed to apply.
External (3 positions available)
External marketing and outreach coordinators will work with the Sustainable Food Coordinator and dining service directors to design materials and campaign strategies for communicating with the broader UCSB community around issues of food, dietary behaviors and climate change. Some experience and interest in design and/or artistic capabilities are preferred. First-year students are welcomed to apply.
Education and Curriculum Development Interns (2 positions available)
Education and curriculum development interns will work with the Sustainable Food Coordinator and campus faculty to design and implement new educational programs and to integrate the topic of food and climate change with existing curriculum on campus.
Compensation: Combination of stipend and academic credit. Will be determined on an individual basis.
Duration: Minimum of two quarters commitment to internship required.
Deadline to apply and application materials: October 12, 2009 by 5pm. Send application materials to Megan Carney, at megcarney@gmail.com. In the email, applicants should attach a current resume/CV, indicate year in school and position(s) applying for.
Internal marketing and outreach coordinators will work with the Sustainable Food Coordinator and dining service directors to design materials and campaign strategies for communicating with residents and staff at the UCSB residence halls and clients of residential dining facilities around issues of food, dietary behaviors and climate change. Some experience and interest in design and/or artistic capabilities are preferred. First-year students are welcomed to apply.
External (3 positions available)
External marketing and outreach coordinators will work with the Sustainable Food Coordinator and dining service directors to design materials and campaign strategies for communicating with the broader UCSB community around issues of food, dietary behaviors and climate change. Some experience and interest in design and/or artistic capabilities are preferred. First-year students are welcomed to apply.
Education and Curriculum Development Interns (2 positions available)
Education and curriculum development interns will work with the Sustainable Food Coordinator and campus faculty to design and implement new educational programs and to integrate the topic of food and climate change with existing curriculum on campus.
Compensation: Combination of stipend and academic credit. Will be determined on an individual basis.
Duration: Minimum of two quarters commitment to internship required.
Deadline to apply and application materials: October 12, 2009 by 5pm. Send application materials to Megan Carney, at megcarney@gmail.com. In the email, applicants should attach a current resume/CV, indicate year in school and position(s) applying for.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
CCBER Becomes Solarized!
The Cheadle Center for Biodiversity and Ecological Restoration (CCBER), which is tucked neatly under the bleechers at Harder Stadium, installed a 4.8 kWh photovoltaic system in early September.
The project is the first phase of powering their operations by renewable resources. They are looking to expand the system, so if you know anyone who would like to help ($) they would love to hear from them!
*The current panels were partially funded by the The Green Initiative Fund (TGIF).
National Campus Sustainability Day
The Society for College and University Planning (SCUP) has designated Wednesday, October 21 as National Campus Sustainability Day.
If you would like to get involved in planning activities for the UCSB campus on that day, please let me know (jill.richardson@vcadmin.ucsb.edu) -- we are in need of creative minds and able bodies!
If you would like to get involved in planning activities for the UCSB campus on that day, please let me know (jill.richardson@vcadmin.ucsb.edu) -- we are in need of creative minds and able bodies!
Sustainability Events Calendar
Just a reminder that there is a sustainability events calendar posted on the sustainability web site. The Ecological Coalition tries to keep the calendar as up to date as possible, so check it out if you are wondering what sustainability events are going on in any given week.
Additionally, if you would like an event added to the calendar, please email ecoalition.ucsb@gmail.com with the name of the event, a brief description, location, time, and contact for more information.
Additionally, if you would like an event added to the calendar, please email ecoalition.ucsb@gmail.com with the name of the event, a brief description, location, time, and contact for more information.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
UCOP Releases Its Updated Policy on Sustainable Practices
In August, President Mark Yudof approved the 2009 updates to the UCOP Policy on Sustainable Practices.
The biggest change to the document is the addition of a foodservice policy that will impact UCSB very little because Housing and the UCen are already doing a great job in this area!
To read the policy, please click here.
The biggest change to the document is the addition of a foodservice policy that will impact UCSB very little because Housing and the UCen are already doing a great job in this area!
To read the policy, please click here.
Campus-wide Sustainability Meetings Announced
Mark your calendars!
The quarterly campus-wide meetings for sustainability updates have been scheduled for:
Friday, October 30
Friday, January 29
Friday, April 30
All are scheduled from 10:00 am-12:00 pm.
Location: TBD
Agendas will be sent out over the list serve prior to each meeting.
The quarterly campus-wide meetings for sustainability updates have been scheduled for:
Friday, October 30
Friday, January 29
Friday, April 30
All are scheduled from 10:00 am-12:00 pm.
Location: TBD
Agendas will be sent out over the list serve prior to each meeting.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
How to Conduct an Energy Efficiency Site Survey
You are invited to attend a FREE training on "How to Conduct an Energy Efficiency Site Survey" being held Tuesday, October 27 from 8:30a to 3:00p at the Goleta Boys and Girls Club, 5701 Hollister Avenue Goleta, CA 93117.
This training class is being sponsored by the South County Energy Efficiency Partnership (SCEEP) -- local government agencies in partnership with Southern California Edison to help our community save money, energy and the environment. (www.SCEEP.org).
This course is designed to help building owners, maintenance professionals, business owners, and facility managers learn how to perform an on-site energy efficiency survey. Become familiar with common energy systems such as HVAC, lighting, and refrigeration, and field equipment such as, motors, fans, and pumps. Attendees will learn how to estimate the potential energy savings options through case studies. After the lecture, the class will perform an on-site survey of a facility.
This is a free event being held primarily for local professionals and there are limited seats available. If you are interested in attending, please register by contacting Catherine Bulak Catherine.Bulak@sce.com. Please direct questions to Megan Diaz at the Community Environmental Council at mdiaz@cecmail.org.
This training class is being sponsored by the South County Energy Efficiency Partnership (SCEEP) -- local government agencies in partnership with Southern California Edison to help our community save money, energy and the environment. (www.SCEEP.org).
This course is designed to help building owners, maintenance professionals, business owners, and facility managers learn how to perform an on-site energy efficiency survey. Become familiar with common energy systems such as HVAC, lighting, and refrigeration, and field equipment such as, motors, fans, and pumps. Attendees will learn how to estimate the potential energy savings options through case studies. After the lecture, the class will perform an on-site survey of a facility.
This is a free event being held primarily for local professionals and there are limited seats available. If you are interested in attending, please register by contacting Catherine Bulak Catherine.Bulak@sce.com. Please direct questions to Megan Diaz at the Community Environmental Council at mdiaz@cecmail.org.
Monday, August 31, 2009
This Way to Sustainability Conference
Our friends at CSU Chico invite you all to attend their 5th annual "This Way to Sustainability Conference" on the Chico campus - November 5-8.
This student-run conference is FREE for students and only $25 for staff and faculty. Registration opens October 1 and it sells out fast!
If you are interested in attending, please visit their web site:
http://www.csuchico.edu/sustainablefuture/conference/
Questions?
Deanna Dottai, Conference Coordinator
twts@csuchico.edu
This student-run conference is FREE for students and only $25 for staff and faculty. Registration opens October 1 and it sells out fast!
If you are interested in attending, please visit their web site:
http://www.csuchico.edu/sustainablefuture/conference/
Questions?
Deanna Dottai, Conference Coordinator
twts@csuchico.edu
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Greenopia Ranks UCSB #1 on Campus Sustainability
Universities aren't shy about touting their green initiatives, and for good reason. When making a decision about what college to attend as well as who to work for after they've graduated, most Millenials will opt for the greener choice. But a few well-publicized green initiatives don't make a college more environmentally-friendly than the next; Yale has gotten tons of press about its planet-friendly practices, but it was beaten out by fellow Ivy Harvard, in Greenopia's recently-released environmental rating of 100 of the largest universities in the United States.
At the top of the list, receiving 4 out of a possible 4 leafs were the University of Washington (for 4 LEED buildings and 25% of food served in cafeterias being locally-grown, as well as a comprehensive composting program) and the University of California at Santa Barbara. UCSB got top marks for having 6 LEED-certified buildings (with 20! more on the way) and a recycling rate of 62%.
The complete article can be found at:
http://www.greenopia.com/LA/news/15547/8-24-2009/Greenest-Universities-WestCoast-Beats-Out-East-Coast
At the top of the list, receiving 4 out of a possible 4 leafs were the University of Washington (for 4 LEED buildings and 25% of food served in cafeterias being locally-grown, as well as a comprehensive composting program) and the University of California at Santa Barbara. UCSB got top marks for having 6 LEED-certified buildings (with 20! more on the way) and a recycling rate of 62%.
The complete article can be found at:
http://www.greenopia.com/LA/news/15547/8-24-2009/Greenest-Universities-WestCoast-Beats-Out-East-Coast
Age of Stupid
I received an email promoting a film on climate change. Not sure if any of you would be interested in this, but I will put it out there just in case.
The Age of Stupid is a 90-minute climate blockbuster set in the future with Ocsar-nominated Pete Postlethwaite staring as a man living alone in the devastated world of 2055, looking back at "archive" footage from 2007 and asking, "Why didn't we stop climate change when we had the chance?"
You can view the trailer at: http://www.ageofstupid.net/video/trailer
For the global premiere, scheduled for September 21st, "The Age of Stupid" will help launch the UN's Climate Week and will be an epic live event from a solar-powered cinema in New York City, complete with green carpet and celebs arriving via bike, boat, biodiesel car and more. We will be beaming the movie out through satellite links to over 440 theaters in the US and 700+ cinemas in 55+ countries. As well as performances by Tom Yorke, there will be live climate impact updates from Kofi Annan, climate scientists from the Arctic, Amazon rainforest, a Himalayan glacier and New Orleans. Afterward, there will be a panel including Kofi Annan, Gillian Anderson, Mary Robinson, director Franny Armstrong, and star Pete Postlethwaite to discuss the film and the tasks ahead. Copenhagen delegates are all being given complimentary invites. Surely, this is one of the most important and exceptional events in the lead-up to Copenhagen.
The film will be screened in Santa Barbara at the Arlington Theather on September 21 at 8:00pm.
For more info: http://www.ageofstupid.net
The Age of Stupid is a 90-minute climate blockbuster set in the future with Ocsar-nominated Pete Postlethwaite staring as a man living alone in the devastated world of 2055, looking back at "archive" footage from 2007 and asking, "Why didn't we stop climate change when we had the chance?"
You can view the trailer at: http://www.ageofstupid.net/video/trailer
For the global premiere, scheduled for September 21st, "The Age of Stupid" will help launch the UN's Climate Week and will be an epic live event from a solar-powered cinema in New York City, complete with green carpet and celebs arriving via bike, boat, biodiesel car and more. We will be beaming the movie out through satellite links to over 440 theaters in the US and 700+ cinemas in 55+ countries. As well as performances by Tom Yorke, there will be live climate impact updates from Kofi Annan, climate scientists from the Arctic, Amazon rainforest, a Himalayan glacier and New Orleans. Afterward, there will be a panel including Kofi Annan, Gillian Anderson, Mary Robinson, director Franny Armstrong, and star Pete Postlethwaite to discuss the film and the tasks ahead. Copenhagen delegates are all being given complimentary invites. Surely, this is one of the most important and exceptional events in the lead-up to Copenhagen.
The film will be screened in Santa Barbara at the Arlington Theather on September 21 at 8:00pm.
For more info: http://www.ageofstupid.net
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Join Zimride!
A message from Jamey Wagner, Transportation Alternatives Program Coordinator:
Driving alone is expensive! Even if you're only commuting 10 miles each way, finding a carpool partner can save you over $100 a month.
With Zimride, UCSB is offering our employees a new, fun and easy way to coordinate your daily commute and save money. Zimride makes it easy to share the seats in your car or catch a ride with fellow your colleagues.
http://zimride.com/ucsb
It's simple. Have a car? Split the costs by driving with friends and coworkers. Don't have a car? Find a commute partner. With Zimride you can also check out the profiles of your colleagues before you share the ride.
http://zimride.com/ucsb
Add your daily commute to Zimride before September 30th and be entered to win a $50 gas card.
If you would like to broaden your search using another online carpool matching system, please use the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments' ride match system: http://www.trafficsolutionsonline.info/
Be advised Zimride, and Traffic Solutions are not affiliated with UC Santa Barbara. Participants are solely responsible for determining whether and when it is appropriate to meet with or share personal information with a potential carpool partner.
To learn more about discounted carpool parking permits please visit http://tap.ucsb.edu/carpool.aspx
Driving alone is expensive! Even if you're only commuting 10 miles each way, finding a carpool partner can save you over $100 a month.
With Zimride, UCSB is offering our employees a new, fun and easy way to coordinate your daily commute and save money. Zimride makes it easy to share the seats in your car or catch a ride with fellow your colleagues.
http://zimride.com/ucsb
It's simple. Have a car? Split the costs by driving with friends and coworkers. Don't have a car? Find a commute partner. With Zimride you can also check out the profiles of your colleagues before you share the ride.
http://zimride.com/ucsb
Add your daily commute to Zimride before September 30th and be entered to win a $50 gas card.
If you would like to broaden your search using another online carpool matching system, please use the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments' ride match system: http://www.trafficsolutionsonline.info/
Be advised Zimride, and Traffic Solutions are not affiliated with UC Santa Barbara. Participants are solely responsible for determining whether and when it is appropriate to meet with or share personal information with a potential carpool partner.
To learn more about discounted carpool parking permits please visit http://tap.ucsb.edu/carpool.aspx
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Save Money & the Environment - Buy from Central Stores
Save money on recycled paper, recycled toner cartridges, etc. by purchasing your office supplies from Central Stores' Environmentally Preferable Products catalog.
Contact Steve Howson, the Central Store Manager, for more information on the products available: steve.howson@stores.ucsb.edu or x3470
Contact Steve Howson, the Central Store Manager, for more information on the products available: steve.howson@stores.ucsb.edu or x3470
UCSB's Bren Hall First in Nation to Receive "Double Platinum" Rating for Sustainability
Bren Hall, which houses the Bren School of Environmental Science & Management at UCSB, has become the nation's first building to earn two LEED Platinum certifications, the highest sustainability rating possible, from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).
http://www.ia.ucsb.edu/pa/display.aspx?pkey=2069
http://www.ia.ucsb.edu/pa/display.aspx?pkey=2069
Monday, July 27, 2009
Sustainability Champions Announced
The Academic Senate Work Group on Sustainability selected its recipients for the Sustainability Champion award:
2009-10: Prof. David Cleveland, Environmental Studies (sustainable food systems)
2010-11: Prof. Eric Matthys, Mechanical Engineering (energy efficiency)
The purpose of the Sustainability Champion award is to highlight and support the work of a faculty member whose scholarship demonstrates a commitment to the environment and sustainability.
The incumbent will work at the campus, community, state, national, or global level to apply their expertise towards addressing sustainability; develop and provide a freshman seminar on their area of expertise and potential applications; and provide a public lecture at the end of their tenure to discuss their work and activities as Champion.
The 2009-10 award is being funded by The Green Initiative Fund (TGIF) and the Office of the Executive Vice Chancellor.
2009-10: Prof. David Cleveland, Environmental Studies (sustainable food systems)
2010-11: Prof. Eric Matthys, Mechanical Engineering (energy efficiency)
The purpose of the Sustainability Champion award is to highlight and support the work of a faculty member whose scholarship demonstrates a commitment to the environment and sustainability.
The incumbent will work at the campus, community, state, national, or global level to apply their expertise towards addressing sustainability; develop and provide a freshman seminar on their area of expertise and potential applications; and provide a public lecture at the end of their tenure to discuss their work and activities as Champion.
The 2009-10 award is being funded by The Green Initiative Fund (TGIF) and the Office of the Executive Vice Chancellor.
Welcome!
This is our first attempt at creating a blog to keep the campus and the community updated on sustainability at UCSB!
Since it's summer, we don't have much to update you on right now, but we plan on ramping up again just before the fall quarter commences in September.
Check back then for regular updates!
~The UCSB Sustainability Team
Since it's summer, we don't have much to update you on right now, but we plan on ramping up again just before the fall quarter commences in September.
Check back then for regular updates!
~The UCSB Sustainability Team
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