Overall Rating Silver - expired
Overall Score 51.05
Liaison Juliana Goodlaw-Morris
Submission Date June 30, 2017
Executive Letter Download

STARS v2.1

California State University, San Marcos
IN-25: Innovation B

Status Score Responsible Party
Complete 1.00 / 1.00 Juliana Goodlaw-Morris
Sustainability Manager
Safety, Risk and Sustainability
"---" indicates that no data was submitted for this field

Name or title of the innovative policy, practice, program, or outcome:
In the Neighborhood

A brief description of the innovative policy, practice, program, or outcome that outlines how credit criteria are met and any positive measurable outcomes associated with the innovation:

In 2016 CSUSM was approached by a representative from Twin Oaks High School looking for a community partner. They were in need of support for an after school class that would encourage creativity as well as teach their students about sustainability, recycling and reusing items. CSUSM donated pallets and wood pieces to the program and in a few short months the students have done an amazing job creating furniture from our waste. This has created a great partnership and is giving students the opportunity to learn real-world, hands on skills that can assist them in the future. Since many schools have stopped teaching trade skills, this program is well needed. To date, 1095 pounds of pallets and wood pieces has been donated.

We feel this program is innovative because not only is it re-purposing a waste item, but it is also allowing students to learn a trade and then make money off of the items the students are making (chairs, tables etc.)- so in essence, it is teaching students to be self-reliant and that you can make a living through more sustainable production of a product. We are teaching students about resiliency and upcycling, something that is needed in today's world. In discussing this program with other campuses, we have not heard of other campuses doing similar work, hence we feel it is innovative and has a unique set of outcomes that is not captured in other STARS credits.


Which of the following impact areas does the innovation most closely relate to? (select up to three):
Public Engagement
Waste
Diversity & Affordability

A letter of affirmation from an individual with relevant expertise or a press release or publication featuring the innovation :
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The website URL where information about the programs or initiatives is available:
Additional documentation to support the submission:
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Data source(s) and notes about the submission:
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