Zero Waste & Sustainability Outreach Efforts in Action at OPERS Fest

UCSC's numerous sustainability organizations were well represented at OPERS Fest this year on September 20, with students tabling about topics such as sustainable food systems, water conservation, native plant restoration, natural history, seed saving, waste reduction, sustainable engineering, and more. 

Behind the scenes, our very own Zero Waste Team and OPERS student staff were hard at work ensuring that waste from the event was disposed of properly. The Zero Waste Team projected before the event that as much as 98% of waste from OPERS Fest could be diverted from landfills. The survey conducted after the event revealed that actual waste diversion was near that goal, with 97% of waste diverted into compost or recycling instead of the landfill!

These UCSC students took a sustainability pledge to reduce their plastic waste by always using a reusable water bottle. The purpose of the sustainability pledge is to get people thinking about ways they can further incorporate sustainability into their daily lives. It's a pledge to make one small change, which can inspire others so that collectively, we're changing the world. You can check out more pledges and pictures from OPERS Fest on Facebook.

Active zero waste efforts like the monitored 4-part waste station at OPERS Fest are instrumental in driving UCSC towards its goal of campuswide zero waste by 2020. Thanks to everyone who stopped by the Sustainability Tent, composted their food scraps, and helped host this fantastic, annual zero waste event!

March 2016: Internships, Employment, and Volunteering

Internships

2-Unit Zero Waste Team Internships - Deadline March 11
The Zero Waste Team is seeking three dedicated interns that are interested in gaining professional experience and are passionate about waste reduction on the UCSC campus. Interns will be assigned to one of the following three projects based on interest: Assisting in planning and facilitating Zero Waste Events, planning and facilitating 2nd Annual Campus Clean Up, or standardizing waste infrastructure across campus. Each of these projects will grant interns a level of creative autonomy but will also provide structure, guidance and relevant training to be an effective asset to the Zero Waste Team. Read all of the application details here.

Campus Food & Garden Guide Intern
Want to contribute to the creation of this year's annual Campus Food & Garden Guide? Food Systems Working Group is hiring an intern to support this project. For more information and to apply, please contact Alyssa at abillys[at]ucsc[dot]edu. See previous Food & Garden Guides online here.

Spring CASFS Internships through Environmental Studies
The Center for Agroecology & Sustainable Food Systems will be hosting 2 unit and 5 unit internships in spring quarter on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9-12pm. Apply through the Environmental Studies Internship Office. Contact Alyssa at abillys[at]ucsc[dot]edu for more information.

Internships with Stevenson Garden
Spend time outdoors in the sun this spring quarter with a 2-unit Stevenson Garden internship! Interns get hands-on gardening experience and contribute to the growth and abundance of the Stevenson Garden. Credit is through the Environmental Studies Internship office. Contact Dave Shaw at daveshawlistens[at]gmail[dot]com for more information.

Environmental Studies Internships Open to All Majors

The Environmental Studies has many different internship opportunities available for spring. These 2 and 5-unit internships are open to all majors. Review some of the internships and learn how to apply on the Environmental Studies website here. Contact Chris Krohn for more information and additional internship listings at ckrohn [at] ucsc [dot] edu.

Seeking Mentors & Students for Provost Sustainability Internship - $1500 + 12 units!
Are you interested in working to make our campus more environmentally and socially sustainable? The PSI program is a great way to get involved! The program pairs students with staff and faculty mentors to plan and implement a year-long campus sustainability project. Students receive internship credit for the fall, winter, and spring quarters and a $1500 scholarship upon completion of the program. Environmental Studies Senior Exit can be fulfilled with this program. Share this opportunity on Facebook here. Learn more on the website.
>>Student applications are due April 28th at 5pm; student applications are available here.
>>Mentor applications for departments to host an intern are due April 15th at 5pm; mentor applications are available here.

Summer Internships for Current Students with Post-Landfill Action Network (PLAN): Application due March 11 
PLAN is seeking current students for six internship positions this summer. Positions available for this summer are Storytelling Intern, Grant Writing Intern, Visual Media Intern, Movement-Building Intern, Goodwill Intern, Business Development Intern. Interns work out of Dover, NH. For more information, click here.

Campus Coordination Summer Fellowship with Post-Landfill Action Network (PLAN): Application due March 11

The Campus Coordination Fellowship is a position for a recent grad looking to build a career in organizing for the zero waste movement. Duties include working with the Director of Campus Coordination to update campus contact databases and identify campuses for outreach and outreaching to campuses nationwide. Fellows work out of Dover, NH. Click here for more information.

Stream Ecology Field Assistant
The incumbent would help the lead researcher collect benthic macroinvertebrate samples and assess habitat condition in streams in Marin and Sonoma counties. The project will span a 4-6 week period from late March to early May, and typically involve 3-4 days of work per week. To apply, submit a cover letter and resume to bstanfor [at] ucsc [dot] edu. For more information, click here.

Naturalist Internship at Foothill Horizons: Deadline April 1
Interns work with sixth grade students during week-long outdoor education sessions. Interns lead students on hikes and outdoor exploration while teaching hands-on science curriculum in a fun, engaging way. On certain weeks, interns also serve as the recreation leader for freeplay and various activities. For more information, click here.

Naturalist Internship with Sierra Outdoor School
Interns will teach 4th through 6th-grade students science concepts and lead team building activities in an outdoor setting in the Sierra Nevada foothills. This position involves leading small and large groups in day classes, field trips, and night program activities. For more information, click here.

Citizen Outreach Director for Fund for the Public Interest
Fund for the Public Interest is hiring Citizen Outreach Directors to run grassroots campaign offices across the country next fall, working on behalf of groups like Environment America, US PIRG, and the Human Rights Campaign. Directors will run campaigns to ban fracking, end LGBT discrimination in the workplace, and reclaim democracy by getting big money out of politics, all while hiring and managing an office of committed activists. Find information about this and other jobs with the Fund here.

Employment

Student Sustainability Adviser (SSA) and SSA Administrative Assistant
Applications for the positions of Student Sustainability Adviser and SSA Administrative Assistant for the 2016-2017 academic year are now open. The primary role of Student Sustainability Advisers is to raise awareness and offer educational opportunities within their designated college communities about the many ways in which campus residents can positively affect and contribute to UCSC's sustainability goals. More information can be found via the Employee Request System at ER #7056 for the position of SSA and at ER #7534 for the position of SSA Administrative Assistant.

UCSC Take Back the Tap Campaign Coordinator and Organizers
Take Back the Tap is currently looking for new organizers and outreaching for candidates for a paid coordinator position for the 2016-2017 school year. Organizers and the coordinator will have the chance to work with outreach, event planning, fiscal, and community organizing projects. If you are interested in organizing with the campaign, attend their meetings on Mondays from 12:15-1:45 PM in Kresge Room 166, or contact them at tbttucsc-group [at] ucsc [dot] edu.

Assistant/Associate Professor in Sustainability Science at Colorado State Universiry: Priority Deadline March 6
The Department of Ecosystem Science and Sustainability at Colorado State University (CSU) seeks candidates for the position of Assistant/Associate Professor who have expertise in the role of how socio-economic factors constrain and provide opportunities for solving current sustainability challenges for social-ecological systems across multiple spatial and temporal scales. More information can be found here.

Sustainability Analyst for University of Virginia: Application due March 9
The UVA Office for Sustainability is seeking an Energy and Sustainability Engineer to contribute to developing solutions to meet university-wide goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, energy consumption, and overall environmental stewardship. More information can be found at jobs.virginia.edu under the University Staff section or by searching for posting number 0618198.

Energy and Sustainability Engineer for University of Virginia: Application due March 9
The UVA Office for Sustainability is seeking an Energy and Sustainability Engineer to contribute to developing solutions to meet university-wide goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, energy consumption, and overall environmental stewardship. More information can be found at jobs.virginia.edu under the University Staff section or by searching for posting number 0618196.

Food Recovery Network Positions: Applications considered on rolling basis through April 8
Food Recovery Network is the largest student movement against food waste and hunger in America. The network is currently seeking to fill the positions of Communications Associate, Programming Associate, and 2016-2017 Fellowship Cohort. Position descriptions and application instructions can be found here.

Employment with the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics & Native Americans in Science (SACNAS)
SACNAS is a national nonprofit organization headquartered in Santa Cruz and the largest multicultural and multidisciplinary diversity in STEM organization in the country. SACNAS is currently seeking applicants for the positions of Accountant/Administrative Services, Program Manager, and Director of Programs.

Energy Manager for Pomona College in Claremont, CA
The Energy Manager provides leadership to the College’s energy program and utility systems and to advance Pomona’s Sustainability Action Plan. This position requires a Bachelors degree in a related technical or engineering discipline or equivalent career experience, Energy Manager Certification strongly preferred and LEED AP or ability to obtain within 18 months. For more information, see here.

Electric Vehicle Program Associate for the International Council on Clean Transportation
The ICCT seeks a highly motivated, self-directed person to contribute to a wide range of research on electric vehicle technology and policies to promote advanced efficiency and plug-in electric vehicles. This position will be located in San Francisco, California. Find more information here.

Safe Routes to School Project Manager, New Jersey
RideWise, a non-profit agency located in Bridgewater, NJ that promotes the use of sustainable travel alternatives is seeking a full-time Safe Routes to School Project Manager to plan and implement projects and activities that improve bicycle/pedestrian access and safety for school-age students. Learn more online.

Sustainability Project Manager for the Massachusetts Institute of Technology  
The project manager will provide leadership and implementation strategies on sustainable building design and construction, energy, water, stormwater, land management, and waste systems. They will lead the development of and enable the implementation of current and future related sustainability commitments, relevant data management, strategic planning, analysis, and collaborative relationships. More information available can be found here.

Volunteering

Earth Day Volunteers Needed
Earth Day Santa Cruz is an annual event to raise environmental awareness; address concerns; showcase solutions; and present balanced modes of living for the well-being of each individual, the community, and the planet. Earth Day Santa Cruz needs about 75 volunteers to help promote, set up and support the booths at the event. If you are interested in volunteering for this great event, email Rebecca Sale at rsale [at] ucsc [dot] edu or earthday [at] ecoact [dot] com.

Volunteer with the Student Environmental Center (SEC)
The SEC is a great way for students to grow as individuals, learn leadership skills, and gain invaluable work experience. Volunteers learn about current campus projects and policies and have the opportunity to participate or take on leadership roles in many topic areas. To get involved, please email seclead-group [at] ucsc [dot] edu, visit the website at sec.enviroslug.org, or attend General Gatherings to meet members and learn about specific volunteer opportunities.

Volunteer with Sea Slugs, an Ocean Conservation Org 
Sea Slugs is an ocean-minded campus organization dedicated to environmental stewardship. It is an excellent opportunity for students (both undergrad and grad) to engage in the greater community through public service while making a positive impact on the local environment. For information about meeting times and opportunities, contact Sea Slugs at seaslug.ucsc [at] gmail [dot] com or visit their website.

Join Banana Slugs for Animals 
Banana Slugs for Animals welcomes all to their weekly meetings. During the meetings they discuss animal rights and plan events! If you would like to know more please email slugsforanimals [at] gmail [dot] com or visit their Facebook page.

Sprout Up
Sprout Up is environmental education for the next generation. Sprout Up is an organization that teaches environmental science and sustainability to 1st and 2nd grade students in elementary schools all around Santa Cruz. To learn about joining Sprout Up, email communitysc [at] sproutup [dot] org.

Arboretum Volunteer Gardening Opportunities 
The Arboretum has volunteer gardening hours throughout the week. Visit their website for details.

The Bike Church Community Repair Shop Seeking Volunteers
Have a knack for cycling, biking and learning to maintain bikes? Interested in learning to divert bike parts from the waste stream? Then this is the opportunity for you! Click here for more information.

Volunteer with Coastal Watershed Council
The Coastal Watershed Council invites you to join its efforts to protect and preserve local watersheds! If you are interested in volunteering on the San Lorenzo River, doing water quality monitoring through programs like Snapshot Day, First Flush, Urban Watch or any of CWC’s other events and programs, please visit their website.

February 2016: Internships, Employment & Volunteering

Internships

Chancellor's Undergraduate Internship Program (CUIP): Deadline February 11
CUIP provides on-campus internships in programs and departments throughout the campus. Interns work with a mentor to develop personal and professional skills, and take a leading role in producing project in their internship. A two-unit leadership seminar class is required for fall, winter and spring quarters. A scholarship of 8,200 dollars is paid towards the intern’s registration fees for the academic year. Internships are available with employers such as the Sustainability Office, College Eight Environmental Programs, Diversity and Inclusion Programs, and many others.

Seeking Mentors for Provost Sustainability Internship
Are you interested in working to make our campus operations, infrastructure, and physical environment more environmentally and socially sustainable? The PSI program is a great way to get involved! We pair students with staff mentors to plan and implement a year-long campus sustainability project. Students receive internship credit for the fall, winter, and spring quarters and a $1500 scholarship upon completion of the program. Environmental Studies Senior Exit can be fulfilled with this program. Application details will be available soon. If you are a student, staff, or faculty who wishes to learn more, please email psi [at] ucsc [dot] edu and stay tuned for details in the March newsletter.

Summer Internship with SF Municipal Transportation Agency: Deadline February 10
San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency is looking for undergraduate and graduate student interns who are interested in transportation planning and engineering. For more information and to apply, visit the website.

Design and Communications Internship: Deadline February 10
Second Nature, a Boston-based non-profit organization working to proactively build a sustainable and positive global future, is currently seeking exceptional candidates for a paid Design and Communications internship position. The internship will be focusing on tasks including design for documents and websites, website maintenance, newsletter support, blog and social media support, and more. Read more and apply here.

Fossil Free Fellowship: Deadline February 15
The 2016 Fossil Free Fellowship will provide extensive training and support to a diverse group of 24 campus fossil fuel divestment campaigners for 10 weeks this summer. Fellows gain hands-on experience in climate and justice-based organizing by working on projects across the U.S. with 350.org and partner organizations, and access to trainings rooted in deep political education on how the climate movement must work with other justice movements. New this year, six mentors will support their peers throughout the program. If you’re interested in being a mentor, email Becca Rast at becca [at] 350 [dot] org.

RE-volv Solar Ambassador Program: Deadline February 29
This program is a unique opportunity for college students to develop key project management, outreach, and communications skills while tangibly taking action on climate change through solar energy. Over the course of one academic year, Solar Ambassadors work in teams to identify a nonprofit or co-op near their campus that wants to go solar. The team works with RE-volv to set-up the project and run a crowdfunding campaign to underwrite the solar energy system. RE-volv is looking for 5 new teams to join the 2016-2017 cohort. For more information, click here.

Employment

Multicultural Career Conference
February 20th, 9:30 am
Porter College Dining Hall
For almost 30 years, the Multicultural Career Conference has brought alumni of color back to the UCSC campus to successfully mentor and assist students with career planning, guidance and advice. The MCC provides an opportunity for current students to connect with alumni of color who are successful professionals and allows alumni, who often attended the conference as students, to give back by sharing their experiences with current students. Visit the website for details.

Student Media Coordinator for the Common Ground Center

The Common Ground Center is hiring a paid student staff position for a Common Ground Media Coordinator. Duties for the position include: producing high-quality graphics and posters, producing video and written communications, and short videos that promote Common Ground Center and its programs, services, and events. Apply at the UCSC Career Center with ER #7527.

UCSF Sustainability Coordinator
UCSF’s Sustainability Office is hiring a Sustainability Coordinator. Ideal candidates have a passion for sustainability, excellent data management skills, education/outreach and event coordination skills, with website, healthcare, and/or laboratory experience a plus. UCSF has no undergraduate students, so this position works primarily with greening research laboratories and healthcare facilities. Read the job description and apply here.

Employment with the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics & Native Americans in Science (SACNAS)
SACNAS is a national nonprofit organization headquartered in Santa Cruz and the largest multicultural and multidisciplinary diversity in STEM organization in the country. SACNAS is currently seeking applicants for the positions of Accountant/Administrative Services, Program Manager, and Director of Programs.

Resource Center for Nonviolence Staff Position 
The Resource Center for Nonviolence is hiring an administration and program staff position to conduct social media, outreach, administrative, and program coordination tasks in a collaborative team of 4 half-time staff members. The position is half-time, 23 hours per week, paying $15 per hour. For more information, contact Anita Heckman at rcnvanita[at]gmail[dot]com.

Project ReGeneration/ Nonviolence Education & Training Program Staff: Deadline February 12
The Resource Center for Nonviolence seeks a new staff person to work in a collaborative team of 4 half-time staff members. Emphasis: Project ReGeneration coordination, inspiring the next generation of activists, and Nonviolence Education & Training. The position is half time, 23 hours per week, paying $15 per hour. More information is available here.

Sustainability Coordinator at Driscoll's 

The Sustainability Coordinator will support the Senior Sustainability Manager in the development and implementation of Driscoll’s sustainability goals, customer and regulatory compliance, and all other Sustainability efforts. Research, facilitation, support and communication will be critical functions of this role. Click here for more detail.

Energy Manager for Pomona College in Claremont, CA
The Energy Manager provides leadership to the College’s energy program and utility systems and to advance Pomona’s Sustainability Action Plan. This position requires a Bachelors degree in a related technical or engineering discipline or equivalent career experience, Energy Manager Certification strongly preferred and LEED AP or ability to obtain within 18 months. For more information, see here.

Student Housing Sustainability and Conservation Coordinator at Stanford University
The Residential and Dining Enterprises Student Housing Sustainability Programs Office collaborates with students and staff at Stanford University to foster behavior change, reduce energy and water consumption and waste production in residences, and to integrate long-term sustainable thinking into operations. The Coordinator will support the Office's goals and report directly to the Sustainability and Utilities Program Manager. For more information, click here.

Portland State Community GIS (Geographic Information Systems) Project Leader: Deadline February 16
Principal duties of the position include engaging with communities, providing GIS analysis support for projects, contributing to strategic planning, and possibly teaching within the undergraduate or graduate programs within the College of Urban and Public Affairs or in Portland State University’s University Studies program. More information is available here.

Safe Routes to School Organizer, Portland, OR: Deadline February 1 by 4:30 PM
The Bureau of Transportation seeks to hire a Safe Routes to School Organizer within the bureau's Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Program. This position will work in schools throughout Portland with parents, students, school staff, and partner organizations to develop and implement encouragement activities, education programs, and events that promote safe, active transportation to school. Apply online today!

Director of Outdoor and Environmental Education at Earlham College in Indiana
Earlham College is currently seeking qualified candidates for the Director of Outdoor and Environmental Education. This is a full-time, 12-month administrative faculty position. Major program areas include the August Wilderness summer pre-orientation program, the Miller Farm sustainable agriculture program, the certificate program in Outdoor Education, and student-led outdoor-based physical education courses. More information is available here.

Production Manager for Duke Campus Farm in North Carolina
This position is responsible for the daily, weekly and season-long management of a one-acre diversified vegetable operation. This position coordinates all aspects of on-farm production, supervises student employees, and serves as a public face of the farm to the campus community. The ideal candidate is passionate about the farm's larger mission, and is highly motivated to teach and inspire others about sustainable agriculture. For more information, see here.

Safe Routes to School Project Manager, New Jersey
RideWise, a non-profit agency located in Bridgewater, NJ that promotes the use of sustainable travel alternatives is seeking a full-time Safe Routes to School Project Manager to plan and implement projects and activities that improve bicycle/pedestrian access and safety for school-age students. Learn more online.

Program Associate with NACTO, New York: Deadline February 7
National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO), a non-profit association representing large cities on transportation issues of local and national importance, seeks a Program Associate with a degree in the field of city planning, sustainable transportation, architecture, urban design, or public policy. The Program Associate will liaise with a network of visionary transportation practitioners and leaders on pressing issues in the field, such as Vision Zero, bicycle infrastructure, public transit, technological advances such as e-hailing and self-driving vehicles, and local transportation policy. The Program Associate will also play a major role in developing and coordinating the leading national transportation conference, Designing Cities. Apply online.

Ecological Restoration Technician at Missouri Nature Reserve: Deadline February 8
Missouri Botanical Garden has an open application for a Restoration Ecology Technician at Shaw Nature Reserve, a woodland and prairie reserve about 40 minutes from Saint Louis. The person in this position will be the primary coordinator of day to day ecological restoration and native vegetation management activities at Shaw Nature Reserve. More information is available here.

Bicycle/Pedestrian Coordinator, Florida: Deadline February 12, 11:59 PM ET
This professional urban planning, coordinating and regulatory work includes data collection, analysis, studying infrastructure, and developing and implementing policies. The work includes coordinating with the Traffic Engineering Division regarding bicycle and pedestrian use of right-of-ways; and with the Planning and Development Department on the implementation and ongoing review of the Mobility Plan, managing short and long term bicycle/pedestrian issues to address and improve the transportation system. Learn more online.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Program Specialist, New Jersey
The successful candidate will assist in the delivery of bike and pedestrian safety programs through TransOptions' Bike Right and Safe Routes to School efforts. The candidate will work closely with the Safe Routes to School Coordinator to develop and deliver a variety of programs related to safe bicycling and walking. Learn more online.

Sustainability Communications Coordinator for Smith College in Massachusetts

This position aims to promote visibility and understanding of the efforts of the Study Group on Climate Change, the Center for the Environment, Ecological Design and Sustainability (CEEDS) and Campus Sustainability at Smith College. See here for more information.

Sustainability Project Manager for the Massachusetts Institute of Technology  
The project manager will provide leadership and implementation strategies on sustainable building design and construction, energy, water, stormwater, land management, and waste systems. They will lead the development of and enable the implementation of current and future related sustainability commitments, relevant data management, strategic planning, analysis, and collaborative relationships. More information available can be found here.

Volunteering

College Campus Cleanup Hours
February 7th, 11:00 am-12:00 pm, outside College 9/10 Dining Hall
February 21st, 11:00 am-12:00 pm, College Eight Plaza
There will be two cleanup days this quarter sponsored by the Sustainability Office Zero Waste Team. Each cleanup will focus on a specific college area; members of any college are welcome and encouraged to attend. Snacks will be provided after the cleanups. For more information, check out the Annual UCSC Campus Cleanup Day page on Facebook here or contact Bella Montez at bmontez [at] ucsc [dot] edu.

Real Food Strategy Retreat

The Real Food Calculator team is in the process of coordinating with the Real Food Challenge (RFC) West Regional Coordinator to host a Strategy Retreat at UCSC during the weekend of February 19. This retreat will bring together 30-40 students statewide, from different UCs, CSUs, and community colleges, to reinforce the mission of equity in the food system, while also strengthening the bonds between campuses. The RFC team is calling for volunteers who would like to help prepare meals, set up the different workshop spaces, and so on. If you are interested in helping, please contact Judy Xie at juxie [at] ucsc [dot] edu.

Earth Day Volunteers Needed
Earth Day Santa Cruz is an annual event to raise environmental awareness; address concerns; showcase solutions; and present balanced modes of living for the well-being of each individual, the community, and the planet. Earth Day Santa Cruz needs about 75 volunteers to help promote, set up and support the booths at the event. If you are interested in volunteering for this great event, email Rebecca Sale at rsale[at]ucsc[dot]edu or earthday[at]ecoact[dot]com.

Volunteer with Take Back The Tap 

Take Back The Tap UCSC is on the lookout for new organizers and a candidate for the 2016-2017 campaign coordinator. Students interested in learning valuable skills like grant writing, social media outreach, campaign organization tactics, meeting with decision makers, or team-building should contact Take Back The Tap at tbttucsc-group [at] ucsc [dot] edu, and/or come to meetings on Mondays from 12:15-1:45 in the Kresge Common Ground Center, near STARS. Check out the group's Facebook page, Take Back The Tap UCSC, to learn more. 

Volunteer with the Student Environmental Center (SEC)
The SEC is a great way for students to grow as individuals, learn leadership skills, and gain invaluable work experience. Volunteers learn about current campus projects and policies and have the opportunity to participate or take on leadership roles in many topic areas. To get involved, please email seclead-group [at] ucsc [dot] edu, visit the website at sec.enviroslug.org, or attend General Gatherings to meet members and learn about specific volunteer opportunities!

Sprout Up
Sprout Up is environmental education for the next generation. Sprout Up is an organization that teaches environmental science and sustainability to 1st and 2nd grade students in elementary schools all around Santa Cruz! If you want to learn about joining Sprout Up, email communitysc [at] sproutup [dot] org.

Education for Sustainable Living Program Team (ESLP)
ESLP is looking for engaged students who wish to be a part of the organizing team for the next year. Ideally, students will shadow current positions this winter quarter to gain skills and training to carry on into the 2016-2017 year. Open positions include:

• Collaboration and networking sphere organizers: organizers work together to design and create colorful advertisement flyers for the organization. Regular maintenance of the ESLP website, Facebook page, and registering for on-campus events are other collaboration and networking sphere duties. The goal for this sphere is to increase awareness of ESLP, outreach for student facilitators, and Spring Speaker Series students.

• Academic Sphere organizers: organizers meet every 11-12:10am MWF for the Winter Training Seminar (WTS) to facilitate a group of students in preparation for their spring Action Research Teams. This group of organizers works closely with admin to build relationships and harbor the skills necessary for leading a successful action project.

• Heart Sphere organizers: Heart sphere organizers work closely with ESLP's staff advisor, Angela Harris, to manage our budget and personnel responsibilities. These organizers work all of Winter quarter contacting and booking guest speakers for the Spring Speaker Series.

Students interested in working with ESLP who would like to shadow these positions can contact ESLP at eslp [at] ucsc [dot] edu.

SUA Passes Resolution to End Sale of Bottled Water at UCSC

Ever notice those nifty water bottle filling stations around campus? Most of those were installed as part of a project to encourage reusable water bottle use by Take Back the Tap UCSC (TBTT), a student-led organization with a mission to end the sale of single use plastic water bottles on campus and educate our community about the environmental, social, and economics impacts of bottled water (see below for more details on these topics). This group has been making progress these last few weeks, with the most exciting achievement being that the Student Union Assembly has passed a resolution to support their cause.

Goals and Achievements

This year, TBTT is working to finally ban single-use plastic water bottles at UC Santa Cruz, and they have a number of ideas for how to do so. One is to connect with campus administrators like Chancellor Blumenthal to encourage their support in ending the sale of plastic water bottles in on-campus stores. Another goal is to get student organizations involved in signing onto a coalition with TBTT stating their support and commitment to hold plastic water bottle-free events.

These two goals, among other strategies like encouraging use of reusable water bottles and installing bottle filling spigots, require major student, faculty, and staff support. If you can lend your support or have ideas for how they can be successful this year, please email them at takebackthetapucsc[at]gmail[dot]com. Fortunately, some progress has already been made this fall quarter:

• Student Union Assembly recently passed a resolution stating their full support of Take Back the Tap. Read the resolution here.
• LOVE Foundation Santa Cruz was the first organization to sign on to the coalition with Take Back the Tap showing their support in the campaign. This organization is a network of students, musicians, and artists who organize a variety of events to raise money for water development projects. Learn more on their Facebook page.
• Student Environmental Center's Drop Your Own Drip Campaign has also shown support through signing onto the coalition, as well as exploring further collaborations with TBTT.
• Installed 4 new water spigots on campus this summer 

David Rosas, one of three co-coordinators for the Food & Water Watch Hub and Provost's Sustainability Intern for TBTT shared his thoughts about the coming year: "I think the Student Union Assembles passing of the resolution is a great first step to making UCSC a bottle water free UC but we will still need a lot of student body support in order to make this dream a reality. Students and organizations that agree with their SUA can definitely show their support through joining Take Back the Taps coalition or signing our petition that we will be sending to Chancellor Blumenthal. Not only do I care about getting ride of single use plastic water bottles on campus but I also want to provide plenty of alternatives for students so they do not feel inconvenienced or worse."

Background
Take Back the Tap has been around the UC Santa Cruz campus for the past 4 years, and they are not alone: the Food & Water Watch's Take Back the Tap campaign has chapters at universities across the country. UCSC's TBTT is part of a Food & Water Watch Hub (FWW Hub) that was founded this year at UCSC, which includes not only TBTT but also an anti-fracking group and an anti-genetically modified organisms (GMO) group. The FWW Hub at UC Santa Cruz is sponsored by the Kresge Common Ground Center.

Why Ban the Bottle
The reasons are numerous and far-reaching for banning single-use plastic water bottles at UC Santa Cruz. Some reasons listed on the Food & Water Watch website include

• "Bottled water is not safer than tap water.
• Increasingly, bottled water comes from the tap.
• Bottled water creates mountains of garbage and causes other major environmental problems. 
• Bottled water is thousands of times more expensive than tap water. 
• Bottled water companies mislead communities into giving away their public water in exchange for dangerous jobs."

Annie Leonard of The Story of Stuff Project has a video that explains these reasons in some detail. Watch it below, or view it on Youtube here.

How to Get Involved or Support TBTT
If you want to get involved with Take Back the Tap UCSC, sign their petition when you see them a tabling event or come to one of their weekly meetings, which are held every Wednesday from 7 - 8:30 PM in Kresge Seminar Room #159. You can email them at takebackthetapucsc[at]gmail[dot]com or visit their Facebook page for more information.

April 2014: Classes, Training, & Community

World Cafe: Changing UCSC's Water Inputs & Outputs
Concerned about water consumption? Interested in collective action? Take Back the Tap invites you to a World Cafe conversation about the next steps in changing UCSC's water inputs and outputs. Please join us Monday, April 7th from 5-7 PM in the Kresge Seminar Room. Pu-erh tea and meaningful discussion will be provided!

Practicing Agroecology and Social Awareness - 2 unit internship
Wouldn't you love to spend this spring quarter outside of the classroom? CAN is hosting a 2-unit internship again through the Environmental Studies Department called Cultivating a Daily Revolution. The internship is for up to 10 students and includes a weekly interactive lecture series and service learning project. Participants will have the opportunity to network with various community partners, meet new people, share weekly meals, and experience hands on projects in agroecology, indigenous knowledge, community activism, and sustainable living. To sign-up send an email to focan [at] canunite [dot] org and visit the ENVS Internship Website to find out more information about how to get credit. Deadline to sign up for Spring Quarter is April 16th.  Or if you cannot commit, anyone is welcome to attend the class.

February 2014: Internships, Employment, & Volunteering

Chancellor's Undergraduate Internship Program - $8200!
The CUIP program is now accepting applications for the 2014-2015 academic year! CUIP provides on-campus internships in programs and departments throughout the campus, and there are many sustainability CUIP positions with offices on campus like Dining, the Student Environmental Center, and the Sustainability Office. Interns work with a mentor to develop personal and professional skills and take a leading role in a project. A two-unit leadership seminar class is required for fall, winter and spring quarters, and a stipend of $8,200 is paid towards the intern’s registration fees for the academic year. CUIP is a unique opportunity to learn, earn, and serve. For details on the list of internships and to apply please visit this website. The application deadline is Thursday, February 13. If you have questions email cuip [at] ucsc [dot] edu or call 459-3973.

Early Bird Applications for IDEASS Internship Program Open February 15
Impact Designs: Engineering and Sustainability through Student Service (IDEASS) will be accepting early bird applications for 2014/2015 on February 15. If you have a novel green-tech solution in mind, please fill out the application here and submit your idea. IDEASS can fulfill senior exit credit for some majors--including ENVS--and many alumni have been offered jobs related to their projects when they graduate. Project topics compatible with the IDEASS model must: A) Include a build/design track leading to some kind of deliverable; B) Be relevant to community stakeholders; C) Be attractive to off-campus / professional talent so that we can recruit a mentor; D) Be appropriate for a fall-planning winter/spring-implementation cycle. For more information, please email ideass [at] ucsc [dot] edu.

Volunteer to Help Plan and Table at Earth Summit
The Student Environmental Center is excited to announce the 13th Annual Earth Summit on March 6th, 2014! The Earth Summit is a space for students, staff, faculty, administrators, and community members to come together and celebrate the history and current actions in campus sustainability, plan for future projects, and strengthen student involvement. There will be empowering speakers, exciting workshops, delicious local food, and opportunities to table! If you would like to be involved in the planning, host a workshop, table, or volunteer at this great event, email Lily Urmann at lurmann [at] ucsc [dot] edu.

ESLP 2-Unit Internship Opportunity
The Education for Sustainable Living Program (ESLP) is looking for 2-unit interns for winter quarter. ESLP is a student organized and facilitated class that is put on in the spring at UCSC based on the Blueprint for Sustainable Campus. Interns will take part in planning and organizing the class. Tasks will include attending meetings, assisting with student outreach, going to conferences, and deepening the understanding of student involvement in campus sustainability efforts. If you are interested or have any questions about this opportunity, please email eslp [at] ucsc [dot] edu.

Santa Cruz METRO Seeks Volunteers for Advisory Committee - Cycling Bus Riders Needed
Santa Cruz METRO is seeking volunteers to serve on the METRO Advisory Committee (MAC). The Santa Cruz Metro Board of Directors looks to this citizen advisory board for policy and operational issues that impact Metro riders. Meetings are the third Wednesday of every month at 6 PM at Pacific Station in downtown Santa Cruz. MAC members are nominated by each Santa Cruz METRO Director and appointed by the Santa Cruz METRO Board of Directors. Santa Cruz METRO strives to balance the membership to reflect the ethnic, gender and geographic diversity of the County of Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz METRO’s service area. At this time, residents of Capitola, Scotts Valley, and Aptos are encouraged to apply for open positions on MAC. People who combine bikes with transit should be represented on this board because there are currently no cyclists who also use buses serving on MAC, according to Richard Masoner here. If you are interested, please apply for MAC.

IDEASS Seeks Waste Team Member
Do you want professional experience or an opportunity to fulfill senior exit credit through an innovative sustainable design project? Impact Designs: Engineering and Sustainability through Student Service (IDEASS) is looking for a few more passionate and hardworking student leaders to join a project team working on a waste reduction project with the Kresge Owl's Nest! Winter admissions to IDEASS requires a winter - spring (2 quarter) commitment. Students can expect to work in interdisciplinary teams with a professional mentor. For more information, or to apply email ideass [at] ucsc [dot] edu and check out the IDEASS homepage on the sustainability office website.

Gain Volunteer Experience Sorting Waste 
The IDEASS team project working on waste reduction at the Owl's Nest (described above) is seeking volunteers for a waste audit on Thursday, February 13. They need all the help they can get to sort through the different waste streams to measure and assess levels of cross-contamination in the different waste streams. Snacks will be provided, and they'll be listening to groovy tunes! To sign up, email Kelsey Smith at khsmith [at] ucsc [dot] edu.

Volunteer with Take Back the Tap
Are you interested in water justice? Do you appreciate every drop that flows out of the tap? Then you might be interested in joining the Take Back the Tap team, a social and environmental justice campaign aimed to end the sale of single use plastic water bottles on our campus. They meet every Thursday evening, 6:15 to 7:15 PM at the Common Ground Center, Kresge 166. Email takebackthetapucsc [at] gmail [dot] com for more information.

Alliance to Save Energy Seeks Program Associate
The Alliance to Save Energy is seeking a full-time Program Associate to assist with implementation of its PowerSave Campus Program. The program employs and manages paid student interns to develop and implement projects that promote careers in the sustainability field, generate energy savings on campus, increase awareness of the importance of energy efficiency, and encourage the infusion of sustainability concepts into academic curricula. The Program Associate will work in the Alliance's Oakland, CA office. For more information about the position and about the PowerSave Campus Program, check out their website here. Please apply via the following link, uploading your resume and cover letter in one single pdf when prompted. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis through February 5. The position is open until filled.

ZipCar Paid Internship
ZipCar is offering a paid internship to students at UCSC.  Some responsibilities will include: Communicating and working with campus-wide contacts to grow awareness on campus, Location management, Vehicle auditing, and Writing and executing a marketing plan.  To apply, and for more information check out this website here for more information.

Apply to Volunteer with Sprout Up
Sprout Up is a non-profit program that looks for undergraduate volunteers to help bring lessons of environmental science and sustainability to local elementary school classrooms. They are college student founded and operated non-profit that is always seeking new instructors. For more information about potential volunteering opportunities with them check out their website.

Internships with WaterLab Research Facility

The WaterLab Research Facility studies wastewater recycling and how to use recycled water to conserve unused water reserves. Though still in progress of becoming a full-fledged research facility, internship opportunities exist and will be expanding as the facility grows. UCSC students can learn more about WaterLab and internships by contacting Eli Weintraub at etweintr [at] ucsc [dot] edu and via the Center for Integrated Water Research website.

Find or Upload Projects to Sustainability Project Clearinghouse
Interested in getting involved in a campus sustainability project, but don't know how? Are you looking for partners for your current project? Have you completed a project that you would like others to learn from? Visit the Sustainability Project Clearinghouse, a centralized database of UCSC sustainability projects, today! You can view published projects or upload your own projects and ideas. For training on how to upload a project, please contact Shauna Casey at scasey [at] ucsc [dot] edu.

New Bottle Filling Station at Porter

If you've visited the lobby above the Porter Dining Hall recently, you may have noticed a new drinking fountain that is designed to fill up water bottles. As part of campus-wide efforts to reduce the use of single-use plastic water bottles, Dining installed the new water filler in the lobby in addition to one located downstairs by the soda machine. Now you can easily refill your water bottle in the lobby, as well as in the Porter Slug Cafe and downstairs in the dining hall.

In past years, a student-led initiative called Take Back the Tap, installed a number of water bottle filling stations around campus. They continue to work on projects to reduce our campus's dependency on plastic water bottles. To learn more, visit their Facebook page.

December 2013: Internships, Employment, & Volunteering

Winter Quarter Internships with the Common Ground Center
The Common Ground Center is currently seeking 2- and 5-unit interns for winter quarter! They are seeking students with skills and/or interest in videography, social media, newsletter and press release writing, and event planning and hosting support. If you are interested in getting involved with the Center in any of these or in other ways, please email them at commonground [at] ucsc [dot] edu. The Center also has a number of courses that provide internship opportunities as part of the class (read more about classes here).

Opportunity for Students Interested in Sustainable Transportation
The Student Environmental Center's Transportation Campaign is seeking a coordinator and 2- or 5- unit interns for winter and spring quarters. The Campaign promotes sustainable transportation at UCSC, including walking, biking, busing, etc. They collaborate with the Bike Library to rent bikes to students each quarter, manage the "Rock the Bike" bike generators, and the possibility of future projects is as expansive as your imagination can explore! For more information, please contact Melissa Ott at mott [at] ucsc [dot] edu or visit the website.

Stevenson Garden Internships
Do you have a passion for gardening and farming? Are you looking for a hands-on rewarding internship? Stevenson Garden is accepting applications for prospective interns for next quarter. For details about the internships offered, please email bredding [at] ucsc [dot] edu.


Arboretum Volunteer Gardening Opportunities
Have an interest in gardening, but don't have time for a gardening internship? The Arboretum has volunteer gardening hours throughout the week. Visit their website for details.

Green Labs Certification Program Seeks New Labs
In the coming weeks, the Green Labs program is outreaching to laboratories on campus that may be interested in becoming a certified Green Lab. The Green Labs committee is asking any representatives from labs that would like to learn more about the certification process to contact them at greenlabs [at] ucsc [dot] edu. The certification process has become more efficient and is a highly rewarding undertaking for laboratories interested in being recognized for their commitment to sustainability. Learn more about the program here.

Environmental Studies Internship Office
Internships are a great way to dip your toes in the water of a field that interests you. Apply beginning winter quarter for internships with the Environmental Studies Internships Office. Email the office at ckrohn [at] ucsc [dot] edu to find an internship that's right for you! Any majors are welcome to get an Environmental Studies Internship. They placed students in more than 400 internships this past year, so there is probably one waiting for you!

Implement Student-Led Sustainable Projects with IDEASS
Do you want professional experience or an opportunity to fulfill senior exit credit through an innovative sustainable design project? Impact Designs: Engineering and Sustainability through Student Service (IDEASS) is looking for a few more passionate and hardworking student leaders to join project teams that are already working to implement projects related to waste reduction, water systems, renewable energy, life cycle analysis, urban planning and more!  Winter admissions to IDEASS requires a winter - spring (2 quarter) commitment. Students can expect to work in interdisciplinary teams with a professional mentor. For more information, or to apply email ideass [at] ucsc [dot] edu and check out the IDEASS website.

Recycling Specialist Position in Livermore, CA
The City of Livermore, California, is seeking a full-time Recycling Specialist who can assist in the development, monitoring, and implementation of the City’s recycling and waste diversion program; research, gather, and interpret data; conduct program outreach; perform inter-disciplinary policy related research; prepare written and verbal reports; represent the City to citizens’ advisory committees or governmental agencies; and more! Learn more and apply online here.

Gaia Environmental Magazine Looking for Interns and Volunteers
Interested in putting together UCSC's environmentally focused magazine next year? The UCSC Environmental Media Project (EMP) offers many quarterly internship and volunteer opportunities. Volunteers help with fundraising, outreach, and the creation of Gaia magazine. Interns take on positions like photographer, editor, and graphic designer for 2 units. For more information about applying, email the team at environmentalmediaproject [at] gmail [dot] com and check out their Facebook page and website.

Volunteer with Take Back the Tap
Water is the life-source and scarcity is our reality. Take Back the Tap (TBtT) is an educational campaign with the goal of removing all single use plastic water bottles from UCSC as a way to combat the commodification of water! Like their Facebook page and learn how you can get involved by emailing takebackthetapucsc [at] gmail [dot] com.

Bike Smart! Youth Bicycle Safety Program Volunteering Opportunity
Bike Smart! encourages youth to bicycle for fun, transportation and health through hands-on bicycle education at local schools. Bike Smart’s bicycle skills "rodeos" (obstacle courses) inspire and empower kids to hop on a bike and leave mom and dad's car at home. Youth of all ages learn essential bicycling knowledge and skills, such as helmet fit, traffic laws, being visible and riding predictably. If you're interested in volunteering with this program for the quarter, please contact Elise at eehrheart [at] ecoact [dot] org.

Apply to Volunteer with Sprout Up
Sprout Up is a non-profit program that looks for undergraduate volunteers to help bring lessons of environmental science and sustainability to local elementary school classrooms. They are college student founded and operated non-profit that is always seeking new instructors. For more information about potential volunteering opportunities with them check out their website.

Internships with WaterLab Research Facility
The WaterLab Research Facility studies wastewater recycling and how to use recycled water to conserve unused water reserves. Though still in progress of becoming a full-fledged research facility, internship opportunities exist and will be expanding as the facility grows. UCSC students can learn more about WaterLab and internships by contacting Eli Weintraub at etweintr [at] ucsc [dot] edu and via the Center for Integrated Water Research website.

Participate in a Field Study with California State University Monterey Bay Wildlands Program
The Wildlands Studies Program offers a series of environmental and cultural ecology field studies this winter/spring. You can choose among six wildlife, wildland and cultural ecology field studies searching for solutions to environmental and cultural challenges. Each program grants 12 upper division transferable units credit. Field studies take place in wildland locations throughout Hawaii, Peru, Thailand, Chile, New Zealand and Costa Rica. All of their programs are described at their website, or their catalog can be sent in the mail. If you have questions about any of their programs, please feel free to email them at wildlands [at] wildlandsstudies [dot] com.

Find or Upload Projects to Sustainability Project Clearinghouse
Interested in getting involved in a campus sustainability project, but don't know how? Are you looking for partners for your current project? Have you completed a project that you would like others to learn from? Visit the Sustainability Project Clearinghouse, a centralized database of UCSC sustainability projects, today! You can view published projects or upload your own projects and ideas. For training on how to upload a project, please contact Shauna Casey at scasey [at] ucsc [dot] edu.

November 2013: Classes, Training, and Community

Instagram
The Sustainability Office is now on Instagram! Follow us at @UCSCsustainability for all things sustainability brought to you in pocket sized photo form!

Seymour Center Behind-the-Scenes Tours
Learn more about exciting marine research behind the scenes and experience the spectacular surroundings of the Seymour Center at one of the tours offered each week, including Marine Mammal Research Tours, Younger Lagoon Reserve Tours, and Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf Tours. For details, please visit http://seymourcenter.ucsc.edu/visit/behind-the-scenes-tours/.

October Bike to Work Day
Did you ride your bike last month for Bike to Work Day hosted by Ecology Action? Throughout the county, people got to work and school by bicycle on October 10 and received free breakfast at a number of locations, including three sites at UC Santa Cruz. In total, 201 people on bikes stopped by the UCSC sites at the Base of Campus, Quarry Plaza, and the top of the Bike Path. This is the largest turnout for Bike to Work Day at UCSC! Earlier this year in the spring, 137 people participated, and last fall, 188 people biked to campus for this day that celebrates bike commuting. A UCSC student who coordinated the top of the Bike Path site took photos throughout the morning--check out the album and tag yourself and friends! Happy bicycling!

California Student Sustainability Coalition (CSSC) Fall Convergence: November 9-10
The CSSC is a statewide network of student organizations from all over California that are working on sustainability initiatives on their respective campuses. Twice a year students from all over the state converge on one campus for a weekend long event full of inspiring keynote speakers, interdisciplinary panels, and dynamic workshops. It’s a chance to network with student leaders from all over California and make friends with hundreds of like-minded people. The theme of the convergence is Building Sustainable Communities. It costs only $25 if you pay online as a student, or $30 at the door. This price includes four delicious meals, housing for the weekend, as well as access to all convergence content. Here is the link to register. There are also sarpooling opportunities if you need a ride, and interim housing available for our distant attendees. Also, please join the UCSC Goes to Humboldt Convergence Facebook group if you want to stay updated on attendees from UC Santa Cruz! Feel free to contact David Shugar at dshugar@ucsc.edu if you have any questions.

Join the Kresge Natural Foods Co-op
The Kresge Community Natural Foods Co-op is a non-profit student-run food store located on the south side of Kresge College. It has been a Kresge College tradition for over twenty years, supporting small farmers, the UCSC Farm Project, and the Kresge Organic Garden. While anyone can buy food at the Food Co-op, members receive a discount. Come in for groceries, lunch, snacks, hot coffee, tea, or just to spend time with your friends. Hours: Weekdays 9 AM - 6 PM

TAPS seeks to connect with Electric Vehicle (EV) drivers
Interested in learning more about electric vehicle charging developments planned for UCSC? Want to know of potential electrical shutdowns at Core West? Transportation and Parking Services is wanting to be in better touch with our electric vehicle user community at UCSC – please send an email to tabuika@ucsc.edu to be added to the list of current electric vehicle users. Learn more about UCSC's current EV accomodations on the TAPS website.

Sierra Institute
Interested in spending a quarter studying among mountains and rivers? With Sierra Institute's Natural History of the Patagonian Cordillera program, you will conduct hands-on botanical and ecological studies at remote field camps while backpacking and horse-packing in the remote regions of Patagonia. Students will explore and learn about a wide diversity of landscapes, from sea-level rainforests to continental divide mountains. Applications are due November 8. Find out more on their website.

Common Ground Center Speaker Series
The Common Ground Center, located in Kresge College and promoting social and environmental change, is offering a few seminars throughout October. Learn more about the seminars and the Common Ground Center by clicking here or subscribe to their mailing list here.

Take Back the Tap
Take Back the Tap to ensure our right to water! Join them in combating the corporate water grab by removing the sale of single use water bottles at UCSC. Learn how you can get involved by joining them at their weekly meetings in Kresge 166, Thursdays from 6-7 PM. Check out takebackthetapuc.org or like them on Facebook.