- What is sustainability?
The UN World Commission on Environment and Development defines it as “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs." In a broader sense, it is the balance between social equity, environmental health, and economic stability.
- What is Chico State doing for sustainability?
Chico State has committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030 and has a robust general education sustainability pathway. We have implemented many policies, plans, and projects to assist us in meeting our sustainability goals. For more details explore our Sustainability in Action(opens in new window), Sustainability in Academics and Research(opens in new window), sustainable students(opens in new window), and Campus Sustainability Committee(opens in new window) pages.
Chico State provides many sustainability-focused educational options:
- The Sustainability Pathway Minor intentionally links multiple academic disciplines around the concept of sustainability, emphasizing systems thinking to address global issues, examine barriers and potential solutions to climate change, natural resource management, and ecosystem restoration.
- Managing for Sustainability Minor introduces many topics such as land management, ethics, and policy.
- An Environmental Studies Minor strengthens your knowledge on the complex natural and human systems that require delicate care and is a perfect compliment to any degree path.
- How can I get involved?
There are many organizations here at Chico State that are sustainability minded. The Campus Sustainability Committee(opens in new window) includes several subcommittees (opens in new window)addressing various facets of sustainability. If you are interested in participating in any of the subcommittees' work, contact the subcommittee chair. If you are a student, visit our Sustainable Students(opens in new window) page for information on several clubs and organizations.
- What is the difference between Green Campus and AS Sustainability?
Chico State's Green Campus is state-funded and works under the advisement of the Campus Sustainability Manager and in collaboration with all campus partners to further our sustainability goals and commitment of carbon neutrality by 2030. Green Campus programs focus on alternative transportation, advancing faculty and staff sustainability, and working to reduce energy and water consumption.
Funded by student fees, AS Sustainability promotes eco-awareness on campus and in the community through education and outreach on sustainability related issues. AS Sustainability provides funding for student-driven sustainability projects, advances sustainable food procurement, offers a green event certification, and manages an on-campus garden and compost drop of area.
- Where can I get funding for my sustainable ideas?
In 2006, students voted to increase their fees by $5/semester to support the creation of the AS Sustainability Program and Fund. Each semester there is a pool of about $50,000 available for student-led sustainability projects! Click here(opens in new window) to learn more.
- How can I make my office greener?
The Sustainable Consultants of Office Practices(opens in new window) (SCOOP) assesses sustainability practices in offices on the Chico State campus. Through the assessment, SCOOP team members audit campus office spaces and provide recommendations for sustainable improvements. Interested in getting your office audited? Contact greencampus@csuchico.edu
- I’m a freshman or transfer student at Chico, what should I know?
Sustainability may seem overwhelming when you first learn about it, but the Green Book (PDF) can help. It contains basic sustainability information that you can use through the rest of your college years and life! You may also want to use our Stewards of Sustainability Passport (PDF) to help you seek out local ways to engage in sustainability. Can you complete all of the suggestions?
- What is our campus policy on bikes?
Riding bikes on campus is allowed only on the designated bike path (PDF)running east-west through the campus core on the north side of the creek. Be sure to follow dismount signs as posted and watch for pedestrians. More information on bike safety and resources can be found on our Bike page.
- How do I report a water leak?
Contact Facilities Management and Services at 530-898-6222
- What can I recycle at Chico State?
Chico State recycles paper, cardboard, aluminum cans, and glass/plastic bottles. Read more about how to recycle properly here.(opens in new window)