In April 2021, the UCOP Sustainability Affinity Group, in partnership with the UCOP Department of Energy and Sustainability, invited the UC community to participate in “Sustainability at Home,” a three-part virtual event in celebration of Earth Month.
The friendly, engaging speaker series showcased dedicated UC volunteers who have been certified as Master Gardeners, Master Composters and Master Food Preservers. They inspired first-time and seasoned gardeners with sustainable gardening practices, advice for reducing food waste, and extensive resource information, including current best practices and industry standards.
Staff and faculty from many campuses tuned in for the accessible, pandemic-friendly activity suggestions and trusted advice — and now you can join them! Check out the webinars now using the links below.
Create a spring herb and vegetable garden
Shilpa Thanawala, a San Mateo and San Francisco Counties Master Gardener, shares how to be sustainable at home by planting spring herbs and vegetables. UC Master Gardeners are volunteers trained and certified by the University of California to provide research-based information about home horticulture and pest management. Aired Feb. 24, 2021.
How to feed your soil with compost
Three San Mateo County Office of Sustainability Master Composters, Nancy Kruberg, Joe Lees and Kelly Torikai, explain how to transform food scraps and plant trimmings into a nutrient-rich soil amendment for the garden. Master Composters educate the community on soil biodiversity and the benefits of adding backyard and vermicompost to your garden. Aired March 25, 2021.
Celebrate Earth Day and preserve your harvest
Hear about some of UC’s recent green victories from UC Director of Sustainability Matt St. Clair, then enjoy a presentation on preserving your garden harvest through canning, pickling, freezing and dehydration by Tobi Brown and Kathleen Fitzgerald-Orr, UC Master Food Preservers of Sonoma County. UC Master Food Preservers have been trained and certified by UC to provide research-based practices for safely preserving food, reducing food waste, increasing food security and exploring healthy food. Aired April 27, 2021.
For tips on starting a sustainability group at your UC location, please contact Michael Aires or Donna Seaward.