CSUN will become the first CSU to open a sustainability center on Thursday, Oct. 26. Photo Credit: CSUN Associated Students

California State University, Northridge will make history on Thursday, Oct. 26, by becoming the first California State University with a Sustainability Center.

A grand opening celebration will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. at the center, on the lawn near the corner of Lindley Avenue and Vincennes Street, north of the University Student Union on the campus at 18111 Nordhoff St. in Northridge. The public is encouraged to attend the ceremony, which will be followed by an open house tour.

The Sustainability Center was established by Associated Students (AS) to be a multifunctional space, serving primarily as an expanded central collection location for campus recyclables. It also serves as the home of AS Sustainability and Recycling Services and the Institute for Sustainability.

“It provides a greater space for the recycled materials and will be the focal point for sustainability programs and services on the campus,” said David Crandall, AS general manager. “Educational programs will be offered in the seminar room and both AS Sustainability and Recycling and the Institute for Sustainability offer student academic internships and employment opportunities.”

The mission of the Sustainability Center is to provide a healthy environment on campus and in the community, to help ensure CSUN meets the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment — a college and university network that creates a high-visibility effort to address global warming. The center also will increase the amount of materials diverted from campus waste by as much as 50 percent and support campus and AS sustainability plans.

AS is the official seat of student governance, as well as a service provider for the entire campus. More information can be found on the AS website.

Associated Students, CSUN Sustainability, Institute for Sustainability