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Sustain U Success

Think of Them Poster
Hydration Station Poster
  • Developed, launched and implemented the “Compost Happens” educational campaign.
  • Recommended and successfully implemented hydration stations throughout the USU.
  • Recommended the establishment of a campus-wide sustainability task force.
  • Recommended and assisted in the development of the ASI Senate resolution encouraging the University President to sign the American College and University Presidents' Climate Commitment (ACUPCC).
  • Passed the Policy on Sustainability for ASI
  • Got rid of water bottle sales in ASI Facilities
  • Developed, launched, and implemented the “Trashtalker Tabling” educational outreach
  • Executed virtual programming during the pandemic that yielded 75 or more students per presentation.
  • Implemented the "Pass the Plate" series workshop initiative to promote sustainable and nutritious cooking.
  • Implemented food harvesting program that directly benefits ASI Beach Pantry.
  • Successfully relocated and replanted Grow Beach Garden (open spring 2023).

Attend our Events

Whether you're passionate about protecting the planet, exploring culinary delights, or getting your hands dirty in the garden, our events offer something for everyone to enjoy. Join us for a series of engaging workshops, hands-on cooking demonstrations, and immersive garden experiences that celebrate the joys of green living. Learn practical tips and techniques for reducing your environmental footprint, discover the art of sustainable cooking using fresh, seasonal ingredients, and connect with the earth through hands-on gardening activities.

Workshops

Delve into the fascinating world of sustainability and environmental stewardship with our engaging and informative workshops. These educational sessions are designed to empower individuals with the knowledge, skills and tools needed to tackle pressing environmental challenges and foster a more sustainable future for all. Our workshops cover a diverse range of topics related to sustainability and environmental issues, offering something for everyone interested in making a positive impact on the planet

Pass the Plate:

These hands-on sessions are designed to inspire and empower participants to explore the art of cooking with fresh, seasonal ingredients while promoting sustainable food practices. Our Pass the Plate series covers a wide range of recipes, basic cooking techniques and nutrition tips, all centered around the principles of sustainable eating. Participants will explore creative ways to reduce food waste and discover delicious recipes that celebrate the flavors of the season.

Grow Beach Garden:

The Grow Beach Garden invites participants to connect with the earth, explore the joys of gardening and celebrate the abundance of the season. Join us for guided garden tours, hands-on gardening workshops and interactive activities that showcase the magic of growing your own food. From planting and pruning, to harvesting, our garden events offer a wealth of opportunities to learn, connect, and experience the wonders of nature firsthand.

Become a Certified Trash Talker:

Trash Talkers is an engaging initiative where we transform waste management education into an interactive and enjoyable experience for students. Through a series of lively games and activities, participants learn about proper waste disposal practices while having fun. By engaging in these interactive sessions three times, participants earn the esteemed title of “Certified Trash Talker” and receive an exclusive Trash Talker t-shirt, symbolizing their commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible waste management.

  • This will include the names and pictures of participants who read the pledge and got the certificate.
  • This will also include the waste audit information and say how it’s related to the Trash Talker and what Sustain U is doing with that information.

Volunteer Today:

Sustain U volunteers are the heart of our department. Whether they're getting their hands dirty at the Grow Beach Garden or lending a hand at our workshops, our volunteers play a vital role in everything we do. With their enthusiasm, dedication and willingness to learn, they bring energy and passion to every project and event. Together, we cultivate a culture of empowerment and action, inspiring one another to embrace sustainable practices and make a positive impact on our campus and beyond. Complete the volunteer application today!

Compost Happens

What is Compost Happens?

Compost Happens Poster

“Compost Happens" is the educational campaign created by Sustain U to support the University Student Union’s (USU) composting program. The program was implemented after Sustain U's waste audit conducted in 2012. The audit identified that 50% of waste going to the landfill from the USU was food waste and biodegradable material, which could be diverted through composting. The campaign began on Earth Day, 2014, and has since diverted thousands of pounds of waste from landfills, reducing tons of carbon waste and overall greenhouse gas emissions as a result. Campaign awareness is brought to the CSULB community through Sustain U members and volunteer “Trash Talkers,” who promote and educate the campus community on the compost program throughout the USU.

If you or a group of people are interested in being trained in proper waste disposal let us know and we can set up a training.

We also hold weekly Trash Talker tablings from 10AM-12PM.


Trash Talkers

Talker Goals

  1. Engage students in the USU in conversation about waste diversion
  2. Inform students about composting and its benefits
  3. Explain how to sort waste properly into the 4 stream bin system in the USU

All trash talkers have a chance to win a FREE compost happens T-shirt.


Be a Part of the Team

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Our mission is to enhance the environmental quality of our campus community by engaging with students, staff, and faculty through outreach, education, resources, and student life activities. By connecting the needs and interests of Long Beach State University (LBSU) community to the university’s sustainability goals, we implement beneficial and lasting changes to the environment for generations to come.

What is Sustainability

Definition of sustainability:

  • Sustainability is a concept that recognizes the environment as an exhaustible resource.
  • To pursue sustainability is to create and maintain the conditions under which humans and nature can exist in productive harmony to support present and future generations.

Why is sustainability important?

  • Sustainable living practices not only help reduce pollution but also conserve natural resources like water and energy.
  • Sustainability improves the quality of our lives, protects our ecosystem and preserves natural resources for future generations.

About Sustain U

Founded from the retired Recycling Center, Sustain U is committed to fostering a culture of sustainability within Associated Students Inc. (ASI) and the University Student Union (USU). From sustainability workshops and hands-on gardening events to community outreach initiatives and waste management campaigns, Sustain U offers a wide range of opportunities for individuals to learn, connect, and take actionact on issues that matter most. Sustain U is Long Beach State students’ first stop for sustainability, and a growing force for a greener world.

About Sustain U
Growing seasons

SUSTAIN U TEAM

Arnecia Bryant
Director of Facilities Operations & Sustainability
Kimberly Cruz
Kimberly Cruz
Special Projects & Initiatives Coordinator
Krupa Mistry
Krupa Mistry
USU Graduate Sustainability Assistant
Mack Andersen
Mack Andersen
USU Sustainability Lead
Parth Balchandani
Parth Balchandani
USU Sustainability Lead
Suhaila James
Suhaila James
USU Sustainability Assistant
Riya Baldha
Riya Baldha
USU Sustainability Assistant

Sustain U Events

Upcoming Workshops & Weekly Events!!

Trash Talkers
Trash Talkers
Sept. 8 & 22
Oct. 6 & 20
Nov. 3 & 17
12 to 1 p.m.
Location: Speakers Platform
Join the Trash Talkers, a sustainable event series that empowers students to rethink waste through interactive activities.

Plant-a-Plant
Plant-a-Plant
Sept. 15
11 to 1 p.m.
Location: PH1 219
Transform your green thumb aspirations into reality with Sustain U at the Grow Beach Garden! This workshop will teach you the art of transplanting succulents into pots and provide tips for nurturing your plants at home. Spaces are limited, so RSVP today on Events & Orgs to reserve your spot. Don’t miss this opportunity to grow your gardening skills and take home your very own succulent masterpiece!

Pass the Plate: Mexican Street Corn
Pass the Plate: Mexican Street Corn
Sept. 15
11 to 1 p.m.
Location: ASI Beach Kitchen
Spice up your afternoon with Sustain U’s Pass the Plate: Mexican Street Corn Salad! In this hands-on session, you’ll prepare a zesty, creamy salad packed with roasted corn, cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, lime and more. Learn about the cultural roots and nutritional value of this iconic dish while building confidence in your cooking skills. Participants will leave with a healthy homemade meal, new knowledge and access to campus food and wellness resources. Secure your spot on Events & Orgs!

Compost Happens
Compost Happens
Sept. 15
11 to 1 p.m.
Location: ASI Beach Kitchen
Join Sustain U at the Grow Beach Garden near Friendship Walk to discover the wonders of composting! Learn what compost is, how it benefits the environment and create your own compost to take home. This event is designed to help you connect with nature and promote sustainable living. Don't forget to reserve your spot on Events & Orgs to ensure you don't miss out on the fun!

Mini Fair
Trash Talkers Mini Fair
Sept. 29
Oct. 27
Nov. 18
12 to 2 p.m.
Location: Grow Beach Garden
Join the Trash Talkers Mini Fair and take a step toward a more green-friendly future! This sustainable event series empowers students to rethink waste through interactive activities, like composting demos. Don't miss out on this engaging, well-rounded experience. RSVP on Events & Orgs through the links below and be part of the movement towards sustainability!

Pass the Plate:Rainbow Pizza
Pass the Plate:Rainbow Pizza
Oct. 8
12 to 1:30 p.m.
Location: ASI Beach Kitchen
Add some color to your plate! Join Sustain U for Rainbow Pizza to celebrate OUTober, a vibrant celebration of pride and community. We’ll walk you through creating your own rainbow-inspired veggie pizza—packed with fresh, colorful toppings and plenty of love. Celebrate inclusivity, get creative in the kitchen and enjoy a slice of joy. Reserve your spot now on Events & Orgs!

Pass the Plate:Indian Bhajiya and Chai
Pass the Plate:Indian Bhajiya and Chai
Oct. 22
12 to 1:30 p.m.
Location: ASI Beach Kitchen
Hang out with Sustain U for Pass the Plate: Indian Bhajiya & Chai! Join us for an exciting, hands-on cooking workshop where you’ll learn how to prepare vegetable bhajiya (pakoras), fresh green chutney and warming masala chai. Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or foodie pro, this session is your chance to experience the tastes of India while exploring sustainable, plant-based cooking. Don’t miss out — RSVP today and savor the flavor of sustainability!

Pass the Plate: Loco Moco
Nov. 20
10 to 11:30 p.m.
Location: ASI Beach Kitchen
Take your taste buds on a tropical getaway with Sustain U’s Pass the Plate: Loco Moco! In this cooking experience, you’ll learn how to prepare a plant-based twist on this beloved Hawaiian comfort food. Discover the cultural origins of this island favorite while gaining practical cooking skills and nutrition insights. You’ll leave with a hearty homemade meal, helpful wellness resources and a deeper connection to food and community. Reserve your spot now on Events & Orgs!


About Grow Beach

While the Grow Beach Garden is not open to the public, our knowledgeable Sustain U staff is happy to give tours of the garden on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during the Farmers Market (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.). To request a tour, please reach out to Sustain U.

map of Grow Beach Garden

We are located on the Friendship Walk, in front of the central plant at the bottom of the stairs

Grow Beach Tutorials

Garden Etiquette

Growing Basics

Organic Compost

Season Essentials