Sustainability: A Working Definition

To utilize components of social, cultural and biological diversity in a way and rate that does not lead to long-term decline, thereby maintaining the potential to meet the needs and aspirations of present and future generations. Adapted from the Conventions on Biological Diversity

Environmental Stewardship

At De Anza, we — faculty, staff and students — all have important roles in the daily practices and long-term strategies that nurture environmental sustainability on campus and in our community. Our commitments are critical so that present and future generations may have a decent way of life without destroying what ultimately sustains all life on earth — natural ecosystems or what is more commonly known as the environment.

De Anza offers many ways to make a difference for the future TODAY!

• Join a campus sustainability group.
• Enroll in one of our many sustainability-focused classes. Check out our Environmental Studies Stewardship degree program!
• Get to know our natural habitats. Visit the Cheeseman Environmental Studies Area native gardens on campus.
• Practice sustainability each day — at school, at home, at work, in the world. Take the De Anza Sustainability Challenge.

How to reduce environmental impact

• Transportation

  Walk, ride a bike, carpool or take public transit to De Anza.

• Meals

  Choose local and/or organic foods. Eat less meat. Use biodegradable plates and utensils in the food court, or better yet, bring your own reusable fork.

• Energy

  Turn off the lights when you leave a room. Use natural light and warmth from the sun whenever possible. When it's hot, enjoy cool shade from a tree. Dress in layers so that you can be comfortable inside your classrooms and workspace.

• Waste Minimization

  Reject. Reduce. Reuse. Recycle. Rethink how your purchases impact the environment. Use a reusable container for your water. Choose products made from recycled materials. Read more about what you can do to live more sustainably.

What's New

• Sustainability at De Anza: Past, Present and Future featured in Spring 2008 FACCCTS see p. 5
• SMP project wins college Innovation of the Year award
• Commute alternatives resources links
• De Anza participates in AASHE STARS pilot
• Past articles

Events

• CEAG Brainstorming Meeting: SMP Implementation 7/15
  
  

Meetings

• CEAG
• W.I.S.E. 37

Green Building Updates

• Visual and Performing Arts Center
• Mediated Learning Center
• LEED Certification

Areas of Focus

• Community and Civic Engagement
• Energy Conservation and Efficiency — GHG Emissions Reduction
• Green Building Construction and Renovation
• Landscaping
• Purchasing
• Waste Minimization and Pollution Control
• Water Use

Documentation

• Sustainability Policy
• Sustainability Management Plan (SMP)

Community Partnerships

• Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE)
• The American College and University Presidents' Climate Commitment
• Sustainable Silicon Valley
• Talloires Declaration
• See full list

Awards

• League for Innovation in the Community College
• CBE Livable Buildings