Green Office Program

Every participating office begins at Level 0 and can advance by completing sustainability actions at each level.

At every stage, offices can:

• Choose from three action options
• Select actions that best fit their workspace and operations
• Learn why each action matters and how to implement it
• Submit completed actions for review by the Sustainability Office

Once approved, your office advances to the next level and continues building on its progress.

Build Your Impact Over Time

As offices move through the program, sustainability actions become more impactful and build on previous efforts. Some actions may appear at multiple levels, allowing offices to revisit and strengthen practices over time.

The Green Office Program is not about perfection — it’s about progress. Every action contributes to a healthier campus environment and demonstrates Cal State Monterey Bay’s shared commitment to sustainability, innovation and community stewardship.

Why Participate?

Participating offices help create positive change across campus while building a culture of sustainability within their own teams. Offices also receive recognition for their accomplishments through certificates, Sustainability Office communications and campus highlights.

No matter the size of your office or where you are starting, your participation matters. Together, we can create a more sustainable future for the Otter community.

The Green Office Program is designed to be flexible, accessible and achievable for offices across campus. Departments can move through the program at their own pace and choose actions that make sense for their space, operations and goals.

Flexible Commitment Levels

Each office decides how much time and effort it wants to invest in the program. Offices can complete actions and levels whenever they are ready, and there is no deadline to move forward. Once a level is completed, your office remains at that level until you choose to take additional actions.

Affordable and Practical Actions

Most Green Office actions cost little to nothing to implement. The program focuses on realistic, practical ways offices can reduce waste, conserve resources and support sustainability without requiring major expenses or operational changes.

Recognition for Your Efforts

Offices that complete Level 1 receive a Green Office certificate to display in their workspace. The laminated certificate can be updated as your office advances through additional levels.

Participating offices are also recognized through Sustainability Office communications and social media. Milestone achievements — every 10 levels — may receive broader campus recognition through presentations, campus announcements or other highlights.

Support and Flexibility

Not every action will apply to every office. If your department encounters a requirement that is not feasible or relevant, the Sustainability Office can help identify an alternative option. The goal is to make participation accessible and achievable for all offices across campus.

For support or questions, contact the Sustainability Office at sustainability@csumb.edu.

How Actions are Developed

The Green Office actions were created through a broad review process that considered cost, level of effort, practicality and impact on campus sustainability goals. The Sustainability Office worked with campus staff and the President’s Sustainability Committee to develop the program framework.

The program will continue to evolve over time, with additional actions and levels added in the future. Offices are encouraged to share ideas and suggestions that can help strengthen the program and expand sustainable practices across campus.

Level 1: Build Your Green Office Foundation

Welcome to the Cal State Monterey Bay Green Office Program. Offices move through the program by completing sustainable actions that support a healthier campus and community.

To complete Level 1, choose one of the three actions below and submit the Level 1 Form for credit. The Sustainability Office will review your submission and confirm your office’s progress.

Action 1: Identify a Sustainability Champion

Every Green Office starts with a leader. A Sustainability Champion helps keep sustainable practices visible, encourages participation and shares new ideas with the office team.

Champions will be added to the Green Office Google Group, where they can connect with other participants and receive sustainability updates, resources and campus news.

How to Complete This Action

Identify one or more Sustainability Champions for your office and submit their contact information through the Level 1 Form.

Action 2: Promote Water-Saving Practices

Small actions can make a big impact. Turning off faucets completely, reporting leaks and using water responsibly all help conserve one of our most valuable resources.

Posting reminders in shared spaces helps build awareness and encourages sustainable habits across the office.

How to Complete This Action

Post the water-saving tips flyer near a sink, water fountain or another common area. Then upload a photo of the posted flyer through the Level 1 Form.

Action 3: Share Waste Sorting Information

Clear signage helps make recycling and composting easier for everyone. When waste is sorted correctly, more materials can be recovered and less ends up in landfills.

Posting waste sorting guides near bins helps reduce contamination and supports campus sustainability efforts.

How to Complete This Action

Post the “What Goes Where” guide near waste bins or in a shared office space. Then upload a photo of the posted guide through the Level 1 Form.

• Submit the Level 1 Form

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Level 2: Expand Your Office’s Impact

Your office is taking the next step in the Cal State Monterey Bay Green Office Program. Level 2 focuses on building stronger sustainable habits, improving energy efficiency and connecting your team with campus sustainability efforts.

To complete Level 2, choose one of the three actions below and submit the Level 2 Form for credit. The Sustainability Office will review your submission and confirm your office’s progress.

Action 1: Switch to LED Lighting

LED bulbs use less energy, last longer and provide efficient, high-quality lighting. Replacing older bulbs helps reduce electricity use, lower costs and decrease greenhouse gas emissions.

How to Complete This Action

Review all non-ceiling lighting in your office, including desk lamps and task lighting. Replace any incandescent or CFL bulbs with LED bulbs.

Action 2: Invite the Sustainability Office to a Staff Meeting

Sustainability works best when it’s a shared effort. Inviting the Sustainability Office to a staff meeting gives your team the opportunity to learn about campus initiatives, ask questions and explore practical ways to support sustainability in the workplace.

How to Complete This Action

Email sustainability@csumb.edu to schedule a meeting with your office. Once a meeting date has been confirmed, submit the date through the Level 2 Form.

Action 3: Share Waste Sorting Information

Clear signage helps employees and visitors sort waste correctly and reduce contamination in recycling and compost bins. Better sorting means more materials can be recovered instead of sent to landfills.

How to Complete This Action

Post the “What Goes Where” guide near waste bins or in a shared office area. Then upload a photo of the posted guide through the Level 2 Form.

• Submit the Level 2 Form

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Level 3: Strengthen Everyday Sustainable Practices

Level 3 of the Cal State Monterey Bay Green Office Program focuses on reducing waste, reusing resources and building a culture of sustainability in the workplace.

To complete Level 3, choose one of the three actions below and submit the Level 3 Form for credit. The Sustainability Office will review your submission and confirm your office’s progress.

Action 1: Visit Second Wave Supplies

Second Wave Supplies gives campus materials a second life by offering gently used office and school supplies that are still functional. Choosing reused items helps reduce waste, conserve resources and lower purchasing costs.

Second Wave Supplies is located in Library Room 1150 and is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 2 to 4 p.m.

How to Complete This Action

Visit Second Wave Supplies and submit the date of your visit through the Level 3 Form.

Action 2: Provide Reusable Dining Supplies

Making reusable dishes and utensils available in office kitchens or shared spaces helps reduce reliance on disposable products. Small changes like this can significantly cut down on waste while encouraging sustainable habits across the office.

How to Complete This Action

Share a photo of the reusable dining supplies available in your office and list the items provided in the Level 3 Form.

Action 3: Identify a Sustainability Champion

A Sustainability Champion helps keep your office engaged in sustainable practices by encouraging participation, sharing ideas and supporting progress toward Green Office goals.

Champions will be added to the Green Office Google Group, where they can connect with others across campus and receive sustainability updates, resources and news.

How to Complete This Action

Identify one or more Sustainability Champions for your office and submit their contact information through the Level 3 Form.

• Submit the Level 3 Form

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Level 4: Build a Culture of Sustainability

Level 4 of the Cal State Monterey Bay Green Office Program encourages offices to think more strategically about sustainability by reducing unnecessary consumption, sharing knowledge and connecting sustainability to everyday work.

To complete Level 4, choose one of the three actions below and submit the Level 4 Form for credit. The Sustainability Office will review your submission and confirm your office’s progress.

Action 1: Conduct a Purchasing Assessment

Reviewing office purchasing habits can help identify opportunities to reduce waste, save money and simplify ordering processes. Thoughtful purchasing decisions also help conserve resources and prevent unused supplies from accumulating.

How to Complete This Action

As an office, review purchases made over the past year and identify ways to reduce or improve purchasing practices. Examples may include:

• Eliminating unnecessary items
• Standardizing supplies
• Choosing reusable or lower-waste alternatives

Use the Level 4 Form to explain how your office conducted the assessment and describe the changes that will be implemented moving forward.

Action 2: Share Sustainability Knowledge With Colleagues

Conversations can inspire meaningful change. Giving staff the opportunity to share sustainability knowledge, hobbies or personal experiences helps strengthen awareness and encourages new ideas across the office.

How to Complete This Action

Identify a colleague who can share information about a sustainability topic with your office. This could include a Sustainability Champion or another team member with relevant experience or interests.

Submit the Level 4 Form describing the topic that was shared. Need inspiration? Review the sustainability connections cheat sheet for ideas.

Action 3: Share Sustainability Information Through Office Communications

Including sustainability in office communications helps keep the conversation active and shows how sustainability connects to different areas of work across campus.

Messages can encourage simple actions, highlight sustainable practices or demonstrate how your office supports environmental responsibility.

How to Complete This Action

Share sustainability-related content through a communication platform your office already uses, such as:

• Social media
• Newsletters
• Digital signage
• Office posters

Your message should connect sustainability to the work your office does. If you need support developing content, review the sustainability connections cheat sheet or contact the Sustainability Office.

• Submit the Level 4 Form

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Level 5: Advance Sustainable Office Practices

Level 5 of the Cal State Monterey Bay Green Office Program focuses on long-term sustainability strategies through responsible purchasing, collaboration and waste reduction.

To complete Level 5, choose one of the three actions below and submit the Level 5 Form for credit. The Sustainability Office will review your submission and confirm your office’s progress.

Action 1: Test Sustainable Paper Options

Using recycled or sustainably certified paper helps reduce reliance on virgin tree fiber and supports responsible forestry practices. Testing sustainable paper products allows offices to evaluate quality and performance before making broader purchasing decisions.

To align with campus sustainability standards, select paper with an approved sustainability certification.

Note: If your office already uses sustainably sourced paper, this action is not required. Future levels will include opportunities to receive credit for ongoing sustainable paper purchasing practices.

How to Complete This Action

Purchase one ream of sustainably certified paper and submit the following through the Level 5 Form:

• The paper product selected
• Any certifications listed on the packaging
• Initial feedback on quality and performance

Action 2: Invite the Sustainability Office to a Staff Meeting

Connecting with campus sustainability staff helps offices learn about broader sustainability goals, discover new strategies and strengthen collaboration across campus.

How to Complete This Action

Email sustainability@csumb.edu to schedule a meeting with your office. After a meeting date has been confirmed, submit the date through the Level 5 Form.

Action 3: Conduct a Waste Audit

A waste audit helps offices better understand what materials are being discarded and identify opportunities to reduce, recycle or compost more effectively. Collecting this information can support future waste reduction efforts and improve office sustainability practices.

How to Complete This Action

Review the “4 Easy Steps to Conduct a Waste Audit” guide and complete a basic waste audit for your office.

• Submit the Level 5 Form

Level 6: Lead and Innovate in Sustainability

Level 6 of the Cal State Monterey Bay Green Office Program focuses on leadership, innovation and advancing sustainable practices across your office and campus community.

To complete Level 6, choose one of the three actions below and submit the Level 6 Form for credit. The Sustainability Office will review your submission and confirm your office’s progress.

Action 1: Identify a Sustainability Champion

A Sustainability Champion helps keep your office engaged by promoting sustainable practices, encouraging participation and tracking progress. This role supports long-term success and accountability.

Champions are added to the Green Office Google Group to connect with peers across campus and receive sustainability updates, resources and opportunities.

How to Complete This Action

Identify one or more Sustainability Champions and submit their contact information through the Level 6 Form.

Action 2: Pilot a Sustainable Event

Planning a sustainable event is an opportunity to reduce waste, model environmentally responsible practices and engage participants in new ways. Even one event can help build momentum for more sustainable programming.

How to Complete This Action

During event planning, complete the Sustainability Pre-Event Checklist to receive a sustainability score.

Review the Sustainable Events webpage for guidance and best practices. Then submit your event score through the Level 6 Form.

Action 3: Optimize Energy Settings on Office Technology

Many office devices include built-in energy-saving features that reduce power use when equipment is idle. Activating these settings helps conserve energy and extend the lifespan of devices.

How to Complete This Action

Review the energy settings on your office technology (computers, monitors, printers, etc.) and enable energy-saving features where possible.

Submit a brief summary through the Level 6 Form describing the changes your office implemented.

• Submit the Level 6 Form

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Level 7: Sustain and Strengthen Everyday Practices

Level 7 of the Cal State Monterey Bay Green Office Program focuses on reinforcing daily habits that reduce environmental impact and support a healthier workplace.

To complete Level 7, choose one of the three actions below and submit the Level 7 Form for credit. The Sustainability Office will review your submission and confirm your office’s progress.

Action 1: Be a Good Energy Neighbor

Simple actions like turning off lights in shared spaces can significantly reduce energy use. Building awareness around shared responsibility helps create a culture of conservation across your office.

How to Complete This Action

Post a “Flip the Switch” sign near light switches in areas where lights are often left on, such as kitchens or hallways.

In the Level 7 Form, describe how your office encourages staff to turn off lights when spaces are not in use.

Action 2: Establish a Battery Recycling Process

Batteries contain materials that can harm the environment if disposed of in the trash. Creating a clear recycling process helps ensure they are handled safely and kept out of landfills.

Battery recycling bins are available in the Otter Student Union, Redwood Hall, the library and the BIT buildings.

How to Complete This Action

Describe the process your office has implemented for collecting and recycling batteries, including how staff are informed about proper disposal.

Action 3: Try a Green Cleaning Product

Using certified green cleaning products helps reduce exposure to harmful chemicals, improves indoor air quality and supports environmentally responsible purchasing.

Adopting these products also contributes to Cal State Monterey Bay’s sustainability goals, including STARS reporting.

How to Complete This Action

Review approved green cleaning certifications and purchase a product to test in your office.

Submit feedback through the Level 7 describing the product you used and how it performed.

• Submit the Level 7 Form

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Level 8: Model Sustainable Choices Across Your Office

Level 8 of the Cal State Monterey Bay Green Office Program highlights leadership in reducing waste, reusing resources and creating healthier, more efficient workspaces.

To complete Level 8, choose one of the three actions below and submit the Level 8 Form for credit. The Sustainability Office will review your submission and confirm your office’s progress.

Action 1: Visit Second Wave Supplies

Second Wave Supplies helps extend the life of office materials by offering gently used items that are still functional. Choosing reused supplies reduces demand for new products, conserves resources and saves money.

Second Wave Supplies is located in Library Room 1150 and is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 2 to 4 p.m.

How to Complete This Action

Visit Second Wave Supplies and submit the date of your visit through the Level 8 Form.

Action 2: Eliminate Single-Use Items at an Event

Events can generate a significant amount of waste in a short time. Choosing reusable alternatives for items like dishes, utensils and decorations helps reduce landfill waste and demonstrates sustainable practices to participants.

How to Complete This Action

Describe an event your office hosted within the past six months that did not use single-use items. This can include campus-facing events or internal gatherings such as office potlucks.

Action 3: Use Natural and Task Lighting

Maximizing natural light and using task lighting where appropriate can reduce energy use while creating a more comfortable and productive workspace.

How to Complete This Action

Submit a photo showing how your office uses natural light and/or task lighting. Confirm in the Level 8 Form that this lighting setup is your office’s default practice.

• Submit the Level 8 Form

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Level 9: Advance Sustainable Habits and Systems

Level 9 of the Cal State Monterey Bay Green Office Program focuses on strengthening sustainable purchasing, reinforcing energy-saving behaviors and improving waste practices across your office.

To complete Level 9, choose one of the three actions below and submit the Level 9 Form for credit. The Sustainability Office will review your submission and confirm your office’s progress.

Action 1: Test Sustainable Paper Options

Using recycled or sustainably certified paper supports responsible forestry and reduces reliance on virgin materials. Testing options helps your office identify products that meet both sustainability standards and daily needs.

Choosing sustainable paper also contributes to Cal State Monterey Bay’s campuswide sustainability goals, including STARS reporting.

How to Complete This Action

Purchase a ream of sustainably certified printer paper using approved STARS certifications as a guide.

Submit the following through the Level 9 Form:

• The type of paper selected
• Any certifications listed
• Your office’s experience using the product

Action 2: Be a Good Energy Neighbor

Turning off lights in shared spaces when they’re not in use helps conserve energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Encouraging shared responsibility builds lasting habits across the office.

How to Complete This Action

Post a “Flip the Switch” sign near light switches in areas where lights are often left on.

In the Level 9 Form, describe how your office encourages staff to turn off lights and maintain this practice.

Action 3: Share Waste Sorting Information

Clear signage makes recycling and composting easier and reduces contamination. When waste is sorted correctly, more materials can be diverted from landfills.

How to Complete This Action

Post the “What Goes Where” guide near waste bins or in a shared office space.

Upload a photo of the posted signage through the Level 9 Form.

• Submit the Level 9 Form

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Level 10: Lead Sustainable Change

Level 10 represents a high level of leadership in the Cal State Monterey Bay Green Office Program. At this stage, your office is taking a strategic approach to sustainability — reducing resource use, improving efficiency and sharing knowledge across your team.

To complete Level 10, choose one of the three actions below and submit the Level 10 Form for credit. The Sustainability Office will review your submission and confirm your office’s progress.

Action 1: Conduct a Purchasing Assessment

Evaluating office purchasing habits helps reduce waste, conserve resources and ensure your office is buying only what it truly needs. Thoughtful purchasing also saves money and minimizes unused supplies.

How to Complete This Action

Review your office’s purchases from the past year and identify opportunities to improve. This may include:

• Eliminating unnecessary items
• Standardizing supplies
• Choosing reusable or lower-waste alternatives

Submit a summary through the Level 10 Form describing how the assessment was conducted and what changes your office will implement moving forward.

Action 2: Transition Fully to LED Lighting

Switching to LED lighting significantly reduces energy use, lowers costs and decreases greenhouse gas emissions. LEDs also last longer and provide reliable, high-quality light.

How to Complete This Action

Review all non-ceiling lighting in your office, including desk lamps and floor lamps.

Replace any incandescent or compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs with LED bulbs. Then confirm in the Level 10 Form that all applicable lighting has been converted and report how many bulbs were replaced.

Action 3: Share Sustainability Through Office Communications

Integrating sustainability into your office communications helps reinforce its importance and connects it to your team’s daily work. Sharing practical, relevant information encourages ongoing engagement and action.

How to Complete This Action

Share sustainability-related content through a platform your office already uses, such as:

• Social media
• Newsletters
• Digital signage
• Office displays

Your message should connect sustainability to your office’s work. For support, review the sustainability connections cheat sheet or contact the Sustainability Office.

• Submit the Level 10 Form

Level 11: Sustain Impact and Build Community

Level 11 of the Cal State Monterey Bay Green Office Program highlights sustained leadership through community engagement, resource conservation and shared responsibility.

To complete Level 11, choose one of the three actions below and submit the Level 11 Form for credit. The Sustainability Office will review your submission and confirm your office’s progress.

Action 1: Identify a Sustainability Champion

A Sustainability Champion helps keep your office engaged by promoting sustainable practices, encouraging participation and supporting ongoing progress.

Champions are added to the Green Office Google Group to connect with others across campus and receive updates, resources and sustainability news.

How to Complete This Action

Identify one or more Sustainability Champions and submit their contact information through the Level 11 Form.

Action 2: Promote Water-Saving Practices

Everyday actions like turning off faucets, reporting leaks and using water efficiently help conserve an essential resource. Sharing reminders encourages consistent, office-wide habits.

How to Complete This Action

Post a water-saving tips flyer near a sink, water fountain or common area.

Upload a photo of the posted flyer through the Level 11 Form.

Action 3: Donate to Second Wave Supplies

Donating gently used office or personal items helps keep materials in use longer and reduces landfill waste. It also supports a culture of reuse across the Cal State Monterey Bay community.

Second Wave Supplies is located in Library Room 1150.

How to Complete This Action

Confirm that your office or a team member has donated items within the past six months.

University-owned items can be donated through the appropriate process, or you may drop off items at Second Wave Supplies. For personal item donations, contact sustainability@csumb.edu for guidance.

Submit details of your donation through the Level 11 Form.

• Submit the Level 11 Form

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Level 12: Model Sustainable Excellence

Level 12 represents a high level of achievement in the Cal State Monterey Bay Green Office Program. At this stage, your office is modeling sustainable practices that support health, efficiency and long-term environmental impact.

To complete Level 12, choose one of the three actions below and submit the Level 12 Form for credit. The Sustainability Office will review your submission and confirm your office’s progress.

Action 1: Try a Green Cleaning Product

Using certified green cleaning products helps reduce exposure to harmful chemicals, improve indoor air quality and minimize environmental impact. These choices also support Cal State Monterey Bay’s sustainability goals, including STARS reporting.

How to Complete This Action

Review approved green cleaning certifications and purchase a product to test in your office.

Submit feedback through the Level 12 Form describing the product you used and how it performed.

Action 2: Invite the Sustainability Office to a Staff Meeting

Partnering with the Sustainability Office helps your team stay informed, ask questions and explore new ways to support campus sustainability efforts.

How to Complete This Action

Email sustainability@csumb.edu to schedule a meeting with your office.

Once a meeting date is confirmed, submit the date through the Level 12 Form.

Action 3: Use Natural and Task Lighting

Maximizing natural light and using task lighting can reduce energy use while creating a more comfortable and productive workspace.

How to Complete This Action

Submit a photo showing how your office uses natural light and/or task lighting.

Confirm in the Level 12 Form that this lighting setup is your office’s default practice.

• Submit the Level 12 Form

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Level 13: Lead High-Impact Sustainable Practices

Level 13 of the Cal State Monterey Bay Green Office Program highlights advanced actions that reduce energy use, promote reuse and integrate sustainability into office planning and operations.

To complete Level 13, choose one of the three actions below and submit the Level 13 Form for credit. The Sustainability Office will review your submission and confirm your office’s progress.

Action 1: Visit Second Wave Supplies

Second Wave Supplies extends the life of office materials by offering gently used items that are still functional. Choosing reused supplies helps reduce waste, conserve resources and lower costs.

Second Wave Supplies is located in Library Room 1150 and is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 2 to 4 p.m.

How to Complete This Action

Visit Second Wave Supplies and submit the date of your visit through the Level 13 Form.

Action 2: Implement a Weekend Power-Down Plan

Even when devices appear off, they can continue to draw energy. Powering down and unplugging equipment over the weekend reduces energy use and lowers greenhouse gas emissions.

How to Complete This Action

Develop a plan to ensure office electronics are powered down at the end of the week. This may include:

• Shutting down computers and monitors
• Turning off power strips
• Unplugging equipment that draws standby power

Submit a description through the Level 13 Form explaining your office’s process.

Action 3: Pilot a Sustainable Event

Hosting a sustainable event helps reduce waste, model environmentally responsible practices and engage participants in sustainability efforts.

How to Complete This Action

During event planning, complete the Sustainability Pre-Event Checklist to receive a sustainability score.

Review the Sustainable Events webpage for guidance and best practices. Then submit your event score through the Level 13 Form.

• Submit the Level 13 Form

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Level 14: Integrate Sustainability Into Daily Work

Level 14 of the Cal State Monterey Bay Green Office Program focuses on embedding sustainability into everyday decisions — how your office purchases, travels and communicates.

To complete Level 14, choose one of the three actions below and submit the Level 14 Form for credit. The Sustainability Office will review your submission and confirm your office’s progress.

Action 1: Conduct a Purchasing Assessment

Evaluating office purchasing habits helps reduce waste, conserve resources and ensure your office is buying only what it truly needs. It also helps streamline ordering and prevent unused supplies.

How to Complete This Action

Review your office’s purchases from the past year and identify opportunities to improve. This may include:

• Eliminating unnecessary items
• Standardizing supplies
• Choosing reusable or lower-waste alternatives

Submit a summary through the Level 14 Form describing how the assessment was conducted and what changes your office will implement moving forward.

Action 2: Walk Together to a Meeting

Choosing to walk instead of drive reduces emissions while promoting wellness and connection among colleagues. Small shifts in how we travel can have a meaningful impact across campus.

How to Complete This Action

Identify a meeting your team will attend outside your building and create a plan to walk together.

Take a photo during the walk and upload it through the Level 14 Form. The meeting should be a reasonable walking distance but not located within your immediate building.

Action 3: Share Sustainability Through Office Communications

Sharing sustainability information helps keep it visible, relevant and connected to your office’s work. Regular communication encourages participation and builds a culture of shared responsibility.

How to Complete This Action

Share sustainability-related content through a platform your office already uses, such as:

• Social media
• Newsletters
• Digital signage
• Office displays

Your message should connect sustainability to your office’s work. For support, review the sustainability connections cheat sheet or contact the Sustainability Office.

• Submit the Level 14 Form

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Level 15: Lead With Purpose and Impact

Level 15 represents advanced leadership in the Cal State Monterey Bay Green Office Program. At this stage, your office is aligning sustainability with broader campus priorities — environmental responsibility, inclusive excellence and everyday action.

To complete Level 15, choose one of the three actions below and submit the Level 15 Form for credit. The Sustainability Office will review your submission and confirm your office’s progress.

Action 1: Test Sustainable Paper Options

Using recycled or sustainably certified paper supports responsible forestry and reduces environmental impact. Testing options helps your office identify products that meet both sustainability standards and operational needs.

To align with campus sustainability goals, select paper with an approved certification.

Note: If your office already uses sustainably sourced paper, skip this action. You’ll have future opportunities to receive credit for ongoing sustainable purchasing practices.

How to Complete This Action

Purchase one ream of sustainably certified paper and submit the following through the Level 15 Form:

• The product selected
• Any certifications listed
• Initial feedback on quality and performance

Action 2: Advance Your Community and Belonging Plan

Sustainability at Cal State Monterey Bay includes building an inclusive, supportive community. The Community and Belonging Plan supports the university’s “Making Waves, Transforming Futures” strategic priorities by advancing inclusive excellence across campus.

How to Complete This Action

Identify one tactic from your office’s Community and Belonging Plan and describe the progress your team has made.

Submit details through the Level 15 Form, including actions taken and outcomes to date.

Action 3: Be a Good Energy Neighbor

Turning off lights in shared spaces when not in use helps conserve energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These small, consistent actions build a culture of shared responsibility.

How to Complete This Action

Post a “Flip the Switch” sign near light switches in areas where lights are often left on.

In the Level 15 Form, describe how your office encourages this behavior and maintains the practice.

Note: If you completed this action in a previous level, choose a new location or area to demonstrate continued progress.

• Submit the Level 15 Form

Level 16: Lead Sustainable Choices in Action

Level 16 of the Cal State Monterey Bay Green Office Program highlights advanced practices that reduce environmental impact through everyday decisions — what we eat, how we use energy and how we manage waste.

To complete Level 16, choose one of the three actions below and submit the Level 16 Form for credit. The Sustainability Office will review your submission and confirm your office’s progress.

Action 1: Host a Vegetarian Event

Food choices can have a significant environmental impact. Hosting a vegetarian event reduces resource use and emissions while introducing plant-forward options in a positive, shared setting.

How to Complete This Action

During event planning, select a vegetarian menu through Cal State Monterey Bay catering.

Submit the following through the Level 16 Form:

• A description of the menu
• Optional photo of the event or meal

Action 2: Optimize Energy Settings on Office Technology

Most office devices include energy-saving features that reduce power use when idle. Enabling these settings helps conserve energy and extend the life of equipment.

How to Complete This Action

Review energy settings on office technology such as computers, monitors and printers.

Submit a summary through the Level 16 Form describing the updates your office implemented. Use available guides if needed to support your setup.

Action 3: Conduct a Waste Audit

A waste audit helps your office understand what is being discarded and identify opportunities to reduce, recycle or compost more effectively. This data-driven approach supports long-term improvements.

How to Complete This Action

Review the “4 Easy Steps to Conduct a Waste Audit” guide and complete an audit for your office.

Record and submit your findings through the Level 16 Form.

• Submit the Level 16 Form

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Level 17: Engage, Share and Lead by Example

Level 17 of the Cal State Monterey Bay Green Office Program emphasizes engagement — connecting with sustainability efforts, reducing waste and modeling values through visible actions.

To complete Level 17, choose one of the three actions below and submit the Level 17 Form for credit. The Sustainability Office will review your submission and confirm your office’s progress.

Action 1: Attend a Sustainability Event

Participating in sustainability-focused events builds knowledge, sparks ideas and connects your office with others working toward similar goals.

A sustainability event can include a speaker, panel, workshop, webinar or other gathering focused on environmental or social topics. Events may be on campus, off campus or virtual.

How to Complete This Action

Ensure that at least 50% of your office attends a sustainability-themed event.

Submit details about the event through the Level 17 Form, including what was learned and how it may inform your office’s practices.

Action 2: Provide Reusable Dining Supplies

Making reusable dishes and utensils available in shared spaces helps reduce reliance on disposable products and supports a culture of reuse.

How to Complete This Action

List the reusable items available in your office (such as plates, mugs or utensils) and upload a photo through the Level 17 Form.

Action 3: Host a Swag-Free Tabling Event

Choosing not to distribute promotional items reduces waste and shifts the focus to meaningful engagement. Swag-free tabling encourages connection, conversation and creative ways to interact with your audience.

How to Complete This Action

Host or participate in a tabling event without distributing swag items.

Submit a summary through the Level 17 Form describing your approach and how the experience supported engagement without giveaways.

• Submit the Level 17 Form

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Level 18: Share, Connect and Inspire

Level 18 of the Cal State Monterey Bay Green Office Program focuses on visibility and leadership — sharing your office’s sustainability efforts, modeling low-impact choices and supporting a culture of reuse across campus.

To complete Level 18, choose one of the three actions below and submit the Level 18 Form for credit. The Sustainability Office will review your submission and confirm your office’s progress.

Action 1: Add Sustainability Content to Your Website

Highlighting your office’s sustainability efforts helps build awareness and shows how your work contributes to a more sustainable campus. Your website is a key place to share this story and connect sustainability to your mission.

How to Complete This Action

Add sustainability-related content to a webpage your office manages. This content should clearly connect sustainability to your work, either through practices, initiatives or impact.

Need support? Review the sustainability connections cheat sheet or contact the Sustainability Office.

Action 2: Walk Together to a Meeting

Choosing to walk instead of drive reduces emissions while encouraging connection and well-being among colleagues. These small, shared actions reinforce sustainability in daily routines.

How to Complete This Action

Identify a meeting your team will attend outside your building and create a plan to walk together.

Take a photo during the walk and upload it through the Level 18 Form. The meeting should be within a reasonable walking distance, but not located in your immediate building.

Action 3: Visit Second Wave Supplies

Second Wave Supplies extends the life of office materials by offering gently used items that are still functional. Choosing reused supplies helps reduce waste, conserve resources and save money.

Second Wave Supplies is located in Library Room 1150 and is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 2 to 4 p.m.

How to Complete This Action

Visit Second Wave Supplies and submit the date of your visit through the Level 18 Form.

• Submit the Level 18 Form

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Level 19: Refine and Scale Sustainable Practices

Level 19 of the Cal State Monterey Bay Green Office Program focuses on refining systems that reduce environmental impact through safer products, responsible waste handling and sustainable event planning.

To complete Level 19, choose one of the three actions below and submit the Level 19 Form for credit. The Sustainability Office will review your submission and confirm your office’s progress.

Action 1: Try a Green Cleaning Product

Using certified green cleaning products helps reduce exposure to harmful chemicals, improve indoor air quality and minimize environmental impact. These choices also support Cal State Monterey Bay’s sustainability goals, including STARS reporting.

How to Complete This Action

Review approved green cleaning certifications and purchase a product to test in your office.

Submit feedback through the Level 19 Form describing the product you used and how it performed.

Action 2: Establish a Battery Recycling Process

Batteries contain materials that can harm the environment if disposed of improperly. Creating a clear recycling process helps ensure safe handling and keeps hazardous waste out of landfills.

Battery recycling bins are available in the Otter Student Union, Redwood Hall, the library and the BIT buildings.

How to Complete This Action

Describe the process your office has implemented for collecting and recycling batteries, including how staff are informed about proper disposal.

Action 3: Pilot a Sustainable Event

Planning a sustainable event helps reduce waste, model environmentally responsible practices and engage participants in sustainability efforts.

How to Complete This Action

During event planning, complete the Sustainability Pre-Event Checklist to receive a sustainability score.

Review the Sustainable Events webpage for guidance and best practices. Then submit your event score through the Level 19 Form.

• Submit the Level 19 Form

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Level 20: Champion Sustainable Leadership

Level 20 represents a high level of achievement in the Cal State Monterey Bay Green Office Program. Your office is demonstrating leadership by integrating sustainability into daily operations, events and shared spaces.

To complete Level 20, choose one of the three actions below and submit the Level 20 Form for credit. The Sustainability Office will review your submission and confirm your office’s progress.

Action 1: Host a Vegetarian Event

Food choices play a key role in reducing environmental impact. Hosting a vegetarian event lowers resource use and emissions while promoting plant-forward options in a collaborative setting.

How to Complete This Action

During event planning, select a vegetarian menu through Cal State Monterey Bay catering.

Submit the following through the Level 20 Form:

• A description of the menu
• An optional photo of the event or meal

Action 2: Be a Good Energy Neighbor

Turning off lights in shared spaces when they are not in use helps conserve energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These simple actions build a culture of shared responsibility across your office.

How to Complete This Action

Post a “Flip the Switch” sign near light switches in areas where lights are often left on.

In the Level 20 Form, describe how your office encourages staff to turn off lights and maintain this practice.

Action 3: Implement a Weekend Power-Down Plan

Even when devices appear off, they can continue to draw energy. Powering down and unplugging equipment over the weekend reduces energy use and lowers emissions.

How to Complete This Action

Develop and implement a plan to ensure office electronics are powered down at the end of the week. This may include:

• Shutting down computers and monitors
• Turning off power strips
• Unplugging equipment that draws standby power

Submit a summary through the Level 20 Form explaining your office’s process.

• Submit the Level 20 Form