Enhanced recycling, Earth Month celebrations at Mission College

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

SANTA CLARA, CA -- Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, the urgency of our planet's needs often gets buried beneath the weight of our responsibilities. It's a sentiment many of us can relate to - wanting to champion sustainability but feeling overwhelmed by the demands of work and life.

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"These events provide valuable opportunities for education, engagement, and empowerment, reinforcing our commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability," said Theresa Tran, Counseling faculty, and Sustainability Committee co-founder and chair.

With the installation of 36 new waste collection stations across campus and at campus events, the committee is dedicated to making recycling more accessible and straightforward for the entire campus community. The strategic placement of new waste collection stations throughout the campus aims to streamline recycling efforts and encourage active participation from students, faculty, and staff. By expanding the collection of organic waste, Mission College aligns with SB1383, the organics recovery legislation, showcasing its dedication to environmental responsibility.

Moreover, the removal of trash cans from many classrooms not only alleviates the workload for custodial staff but also underscores the college's commitment to waste reduction and sustainability.

"We believe that recycling is a practical way for everyone on campus to contribute to a greener future," said Jean Replicon, Biology faculty and Sustainability Committee member. "By diverting waste from landfills and repurposing materials, we can minimize our environmental footprint and promote a culture of sustainability."

The Sustainability Committee invites the campus community to provide feedback on recycling efforts and suggestions for additional waste collection stations. Feedback can be directed to [email protected].

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Sustainability Committee Future

Looking ahead, the committee aims to expand the recycling program campus-wide and across the entire district, including at West Valley College. Collaboration and input from the campus community will be crucial in achieving this goal.

The Sustainability Committee has five subcommittees - all welcoming additional members, especially students. They include: Alternate transportation, Earth Month/Eco Fair activities, Native garden, Sustainability Master Plan and Waste Management.

Furthermore, the committee administers the SVP Sustainable Futures Scholarship in partnership with the City of Santa Clara and Silicon Valley Power, providing financial support to deserving students committed to sustainability.

"We are committed to educating, advising, and advocating for a greener Mission," added Tran. "Together, we can make a significant impact on our environment and create a more sustainable future for generations to come."

Despite the overwhelming demands of daily life, the committee's dedication to sustainability remains unwavering. Together, they encourage all of us to rise above the challenges and embrace our responsibility to care for the only home we have - our precious planet Earth.

Benjamin Demers
Director of Marketing and Public Relations
[email protected]