Advocate to department and UCSB administration


Problem: Many conservation techniques have no guidelines or policies, so most people in a department may be unaware of opportunities or other researchers’ willingness to participate.

Solution: Request that your department develop sustainability guidelines optimized for your equipment, staff, and techniques. Nominate or request volunteers for a committee of interested faculty, students and staff. Check out the Ellison Hall Sustainability Committee and Bren Student Sustainability Committee for examples.

Benefits: Consistent conservation practices where easy opportunities are chosen automatically.

Costs: Quarterly meetings of 3-5 people can be over lunch or coffee. These groups can be both rewarding and fun. Emails can take a few minutes to remind people now and then.