University of CaliforniaAgriculture and Natural Resources

UC Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) delivers the land grant mission for the University and the state of California by developing and promoting practical, science-based solutions to ensure the sustainability of the state’s food systems, water resources and natural ecosystems.

During 2020, UC ANR’s statewide facilities, including nine Research and Extension Centers, the Elkus Ranch Environmental Education Center and an administrative building, made strides in sustainable practices. 

Water

UC ANR established a baseline for potable water usage, based on a three-year average (2016-19) of 20 gallons per square foot. In 2020, UC ANR averaged 21 gallons per square foot, partially due to meter installations that improved accuracy, resulting in higher readings. The South Coast Research and Extension Center reduced nonpotable water usage by 8.8 million gallons, compared to the previous year. The center continues to use reclaimed water for research and landscaping, and promotes reclaimed water management strategies. 

Transportation

Of UC ANR’s new light-duty fleet vehicles, 11% were zero-emission (ZEV) or hybrid. Although it is often not feasible for UC ANR to purchase or lease ZEVs or hybrid vehicles given the need for pickup trucks that are not available in those models, when possible, UC ANR purchases or leases flex fuel vehicles, which use alternative fuel. Four newly acquired light-duty vehicles, or 44% of all new vehicles, were flex fuel. 

Waste

The Elkus Ranch Environmental Education Center, in partnership with the San Mateo County Office of Sustainability, continued to educate visitors about waste reduction through the waste-free lunches program. Nearly 7,000 school-age students visited in the past year, and 1,000 reusable snack bags were distributed.

Energy

UC ANR’s LEED certified administrative building continues to make energy-efficiency improvements, including climate adjustments according to occupancy and retrofitting parking lot lights. These improvements have resulted in a 22% reduction in electricity use and 50% reduction in gas use. 

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