Both UCSB and the Santa Barbara community have a rich history of strong community support for the environment. Below are a list of just some of the many campus groups, clubs, and organizations, as well as local Santa Barbara agencies, organizations, and companies that offer a vast array of opportunities for interested students to get involved and enjoy the amazing beauty and diversity the Santa Barbara area has to offer.

 

Adventure Programs https://recreation.ucsb.edu/adventure-programs

  • Our mission is to create leaders, educate, and build a strong community of people who share the love for the outdoors. Our goal is to inspire participants to exceed their own limits and to motivate participants to break existing barriers while encouraging them to push themselves to surpass the unexpected.
  • Instagram: @ucsbadventure

American Indian and Indigenous Student Association (AISA) https://www.facebook.com/groups/ucsbaisa/ 
https://linktr.ee/ucsbaisa

  • Members of the American Indian Student Association welcome students from all tribal affiliations and cultural backgrounds in an effort to increase knowledge on campus about Indigenous lives and cultures. 
  • Instagram: @ucsb.aiisa

Associated Students (A.S.) http://www.as.ucsb.edu

  • A.S. voices student concerns through elected student positions and appointments. Its mission is to help students uphold high academic standards, and provide them with leadership, employment, and cultural enrichment and growth opportunities.
  • Instagram: @asucsb

A.S. Bike Shop https://bikeshop.as.ucsb.edu/

  • The Associated Students Bike Shop is a student funded nonprofit organization dedicated to education, service, and safety. Our shop is run by a team of passionate students who provide repairs and resources to get the UCSB community's bicycles running smoothly. 
  • Instagram: @as.bikeshop

A.S. Community Affairs Board (CAB) https://cab.as.ucsb.edu/

  • CAB is dedicated to enhancing the educational experience of all UCSB students by providing information and easy access to community service work. 
  • Instagram: @ucsbcab

A.S. Environmental Affairs Board (EAB) https://eab.as.ucsb.edu/

  • A family of students dedicated to integrating sustainable policies and practices on campus and in the community.
  • Instagram: @ucsbeab

A.S. Food Bank https://foodbank.as.ucsb.edu/

  • The A.S. Food Bank provides food, produce, and toiletries to the diverse Gaucho community. Led by a group of diverse students who tackle food insecurity on campus, the Food Bank continually raises awareness on issues surrounding food. 
  • Instagram: @ucsbasfoodbank

A.S. Recycling http://recycling.as.ucsb.edu/

  • This student driven groups strives to divert as much waste as possible by recycling plastic and glass from bins all over campus, collecting e-waste from students and campus departments, as well as vermicomposting food waste from the local community. 
  • Instagram: @asrecycling

CALPIRG www.calpirgstudents.org

  • A public interest advocacy group fighting for environmental and social causes through legislative change.
  • Instagram: @ucsbcalpirg

Cheadle Center for Biodiversity and Ecological Restoration (CCBER) http://www.ccber.ucsb.edu/

  • CCBER supports scientific research interests, houses a regionally focused herbarium, and satisfies the University's obligation to provide stewardship of campus lands. Through the ecological restoration program, the Center encourages land restoration on and near campus.
  • Instagram: @cheadlecenter

Chemistry Club https://www.facebook.com/UCSBChemistryClub/

  • As a chapter of the American Chemical Society (ACS), the Chemistry Club offers research opportunities, outreach activities, trips to ACS and other science conferences, professional networking opportunities, volunteer activities, and more. Club requires no specific major nor any dues (excluding ACS student membership, which is optional).
  • Instagram: @ucsb_chemclub

Commission on Disability Equality (CODE) https://code.as.ucsb.edu/

  • CODE is dedicated to improving the status of students with temporary or permanent disabilities on campus and in the community, committed to advocating for students with disabilities, and educating the campus community on the importance of equal access by raising disability issues, interests, and awareness on a local, state, and national level.
  • Instagram: @ucsbcode

Coastal Fund https://coastalfund.as.ucsb.edu

  • Provides funds to enhance, protect, and restore the local shoreline through preservation, education, open access, research, and restoration. Apply for funding today!   
  • Instagram: @coastalfund

Coal Oil Point Reserve & the Snowy Plover Docent Program https://copr.nrs.ucsb.edu/
https://copr.nrs.ucsb.edu/get-involved/snowy-plover-docent-program

  • The Coal Oil Point Reserve is part of the University of California Santa Barbara Natural Reserve System. Learn about classes on the reserve, local stewardship, and the snowy plover docent program.
  • Instagram: @coaloilpointreserve

College of Letters and Science Honors Association https://www.duels.ucsb.edu/honors

  • The Honors Association aims to connect members with faculty through academic and social networking contexts. It will also provide more contact amongst students in the Honors Program.

Department of Public Worms https://worms.as.ucsb.edu/

  • DPW turns food waste into compost to be used to grow fresh produce for fellow students at UCSB, thus creating a closed-loop food system on campus. They practice and promote sustainable agriculture techniques while educating the community about the importance of composting and gardening.
  • Instagram: @ucsbdpw

Edible Campus Program https://sustainability.ucsb.edu/ediblecampus

  • The Edible Campus Program aims to address local food insecurity by repurposing underutilized spaces for sustainable food production, turning waste into food, and engaging students as growers and producers. They train students in practices that address social, economic, and environmental aspects of sustainability and help them to reclaim their personal connection to the land and their food.
  • Instagram: @ucsbecp

Engineers Without Borders (EWB) https://www.ewbucsb.org/

  • EWB is a student run organization open to all interested persons. Its mission is to partner with disadvantaged communities to improve their quality of life through implementation of environmentally and economically sustainable engineering projects.
  • Instagram: @ewb.ucsb

Environmental Justice Alliance (EJA) https://eja.as.ucsb.edu/

  • The Environmental Justice Alliance is a group of undergraduate students at UCSB who are deeply committed to environmental justice. They strive to provide a space on UCSB's campus for students to hang out and share their experiences relating to, involving environmental injustice. 
  • Instagram: @ucsbeja

Excursion Club https://www.excursionclubucsb.org/

  • An outdoor adventure club offering hiking, kayaking, climbing, and a variety of other activities and trips. Meetings are held once per week.
  • Instagram: @excursionclubucsb

FeelGood Santa Barbara (FeelGood SB) https://www.facebook.com/feelgoodsb

  • A student movement dedicated to ending world hunger, one grilled cheese at a time. Our purpose is to raise money and awareness for the end of hunger.
  • Instagram: @feelgoodsb

Food Not Bombs Isla Vista https://www.facebook.com/fnbiv/

  • Food Not Bombs serves free, nutritious vegan meals to the community of Isla Vista using leftover farmers' market produce. They practice horizontal organization and mutual aid and believe that food is a right, not a privilege. 
  • Instagram: @foodnotbombsislavista

Garden and Greenhouse Project https://localwiki.org/islavista/UCSB_Greenhouse_and_Garden_Project
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GHGPUCSB/

  • A space for students and community members to garden organically.
  • Instagram: @ghgpucsb

Gauchos Go Green https://www.ucsbgauchosgogreen.org/

  • Gauchos Go Green's mission is to institutionalize and promote sustainable practices and ideals within the UC Santa Barbara Greek community and the broader Isla Vista community through advancing discussion, facilitating collaboration, and achieving short-term and long-term projects. 
  • Instagram: @ucsbgauchosgogreen

Global Environmental Brigades 
http://www.empowered.org/Environmental-Brigades-at-University-of-California,-Santa-Barbara

  • A student-led organization that focuses on reforestation, sustainable agriculture, waste management, and education by empowering community members in rural communities in east Panama. 

Global Medical Brigades http://www.empowered.org/Medical-Brigades-at-UC-Santa-Barbara

  • A student-led organization dedicated to working with licensed medical professionals and community health workers to provide comprehensive health services in rural communities with limited access to healthcare.

Global Public Health Brigades http://www.empowered.org/Public-Health-Brigades-at-UC-Santa-Barbara

  • A student-led organization that empowers under resourced communities in the developing world to decrease life threatening diseases by improving home infrastructure and providing public health education.

Global Water Brigades http://www.empowered.org/Water-Brigades-at-UC-Santa-Barbara

  • A student-led organization that assists in designing and implementing water systems to prevent water related illnesses in communities with limited access to clean water.

Horse Boarders Association https://www.ucsbhorseboarders.com/

  • Cooperative association dedicated to providing space for horses at west campus.
  • Instagram: @ucsbhorses

Human Rights Board https://www.facebook.com/ucsbhrb/

  • Human Rights Board is a coalition of passionate human rights and social justice activists determined to educate UCSB students on all human rights violations on a global scale. The Board will host programs conducive to enlightening the community about Human Rights violations and inhumane atrocities around the world. 
  • Instagram: @ucsbhrb

Isla Vista Chapter of Surfrider https://www.facebook.com/IVSurfrider/

  • Dedicated to protecting our oceans and beaches through education and activism.
  • Instagram: @islavistasurfrider

Isla Vista Food Coop https://www.islavistafood.coop/

  • The Isla Vista Food Cop is Santa Barbara County's only community-owned grocery store, providing the community with always high quality and affordable food that local farmers and producers sell to. The Coop participates in many community events to help share resources to make grocery shopping fun and affordable, and invest back into Isla Vista so that everyone can benefit from having a grocery store that everyone owns together. 
  • Instagram: @islavistafoodcoop

Making Adventures Possible for All Students (MAPAS) https://mapasucsb.wixsite.com/hello

  • The mission of MAPAS is to create opportunities for historically underrepresented communities to engage in outdoor activities and build a community through shared support and experiences. Additionally, they aim to educate one another on environmental issues and foster a sense of stewardship for the outdoors. 
  • Instagram: @mapas.ucsb

Mauna Kea Protectors (MKP) https://linktr.ee/mkpatucsb

  • MKP is a community of students supporting our kia'i (protectors) on the frontline atop Mauna Kea.
  • Instagram: @mkp_ucsb

Model United Nations at UCSB https://www.ucsbmun.org/

  • Members simulate United Nations diplomacy to formulate solutions to global issues from a multilateral approach.
  • Instagram: @ucsbmun

Nuclear Age Peace Foundation @ UCSB https://www.wagingpeace.org/
https://www.facebook.com/wagingpeace/

  • Concentrates on raising awareness of the UC’s involvement in nuclear weapons research and production.

Santa Barbara Student Housing Co-op www.sbcoop.org

  • Cooperative organization dedicated to providing UCSB students, staff, and faculty with affordable housing that adheres to the principles of sustainability.
  • Instagram: @sbstudenthousingcoop

SCUBA Club at UCSB https://www.facebook.com/ucsbscuba/about

  • The organization's purpose is to create a social network and encourage safe and responsible diving practices. We also host monthly guest speakers highlighting different aspects of ocean related careers.
  • Instagram: @scubaucsb

TGIF http://www.sustainability.ucsb.edu/tgif/

  • The Green Initiative Fund (TGIF) was the first green fee in the UC system. It was created by students in the spring of 2006 with a charge to reduce the University's impact on the environment.

UCSB Climbing Team https://recreation.ucsb.edu/sport-club/coed-climbing

  • The Climbing Team's purpose is to provide a healthy environment for novices and experienced climbers alike - whether they prefer friendly, indoor competition or long weekends spent in any of California's world-class climbing destinations. 
  • Instagram: @ucsbclimbing

UCSB Cycling Team http://ucsbcycling.org/

  • Dedicated to enjoying Santa Barbara on bicycle power in both recreational and competitive settings.
  • Instagram: @ucsbcycling

UCSB Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) http://ehs.ucsb.edu/

  • The office of EH&S is committed to promoting a safe and healthful environment for research, instruction and the campus community. Through education, auditing and monitoring, technical consultation, and the provision of direct services, EH&S assists the campus in meetings its obligations with State and Federal health, safety and environmental regulations. 

UCSB IV Ethnobotany Project https://www.hoellelab.com/iv-ethnobotany-project

  • Here at the IV Ebot Project, you can discover edible, medicinal, and useful plants on the UCSB Campus and in Isla Vista. They hope this site will help the community get out and learn more about the plants in the local area. 
  • Instagram: @ivethnobotany

The Wildlife Society https://www.facebook.com/groups/281155985264434/

  • The Wildlife Society is dedicated to the responsible conservation of wildlife through learning, teaching, and community outreach.

Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) www.wise.ucsb.edu

  • Provides a network for women scientists of all levels and promotes equal opportunities for women and girls in science and engineering.
  • Instagram: @wise_ucsb

Your Children's Trees https://www.yourchildrenstrees.org/

  • Your Children's Trees is a volunteer non-profit urban forestry organization that works throughout Santa Barbara to grow, plant, and care for trees primarily in public areas, and to provide educational outreach to schools and the community about the benefit of trees.
  • Instagram: @yct_ucsb

Zero Waste Committee http://recycling.as.ucsb.edu/

  • The Zero Waste Committee strives to eliminate waste by promoting reduction, reuse and recycling of all materials used on the UCSB campus and the surrounding community, promoting composting, promoting the buying of recycled and sustainable products on the UCSB campus, and by working closely with other environmental groups.
  • Instagram: @ucsbzerowaste

Non-Governmental Organizations

Art From Scrap https://exploreecology.org/art-from-scrap/
Leading environmental education organizations in Santa Barbara. Art From Scrap provides the community with a Green Schools environmental education program, an Arts Center, and a Reuse retail store.

California Regional Environmental Education Community (CREEC) Network https://www.creec.org/
An educational network whose mission it is to enhance the environmental literacy of students in California.

Central Coast Bioneers https://ecologistics.org/central-coast-bioneers/
Central Coast Bioneers is committed to creating a place of excitement, hope, and connection that educates and inspires people of all ages and backgrounds to take action to create a more sustainable community. 

Central Coast Clean Cities Coalition https://www.c-5.org
C5 is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization & a U.S. Department of Energy designated coalition in the Clean Cities and Communities partnership with the mission of cultivating partnerships with diverse stakeholders to support transportation decarbonization across California’s Central Coast. 

Channel Islands Restoration https://cirweb.org
Channel Islands Restoration protects rare and endangered plants and animals by restoring habitat in sensitive and unique natural areas on the California Channel Islands and adjacent mainland.

Citizens Planning Association and Foundation www.citizensplanning.org
Formed in order to protect the natural resources of Santa Barbara County and to prevent unregulated growth and development.

Community Environmental Council (CEC) http://www.cecsb.org/index.php
An evolving family of programs that adapts to the South Coast’s changing environmental challenges. Current focus areas are water, energy, sustainable land use, and education.

Conception Coast Project www.conceptioncoast.org
Dedicated to protecting local natural resources through science, planning, and community involvement.

ECOFaith of Santa Barbara https://www.facebook.com/ecofaithsb/
ECOFaith is a coalition of diverse local and regional faith communities and individuals who are working together to lower carbon emissions and get on the path to sustainability. 

Environmental Defense Center (EDC) www.edcnet.org
The central coast’s only nonprofit environmental law firm.

Explore Ecology http://www.exploreecology.org/
Explore Ecology delivers a variety of environmental education programs to encourage creative thinking through hands-on science exploration and art discovery.

Gaviota Coast Conservancy www.gaviotacoastconservancy.org
Fighting for the permanent protection of the Gaviota coast’s natural, scenic, recreational, agricultural, and cultural heritage.

Get Oil Out! http://www.getoilout.org/
GOO is an all volunteer organization fighting the biggest oil companies in the world.

Goleta Valley Beautiful https://www.facebook.com/GoletaValleyBeautiful/
Local non profit group dedicated to maintaining and establishing urban forest and tree cover in Goleta.

Gray Whales Count http://www.graywhalescount.org/GWC/The_Count/The_Count.html
Surveying the northbound migration of Gray whales through the nearshore of the Santa Barbara Channel from Counter Point on Coal Oil Point Reserve in Goleta.

Green Business Santa Barbara County  https://greenbusinessca.org/SantaBarbaraCounty 
The Green Business Program offers incentives and assistance to encourage businesses to implement voluntary actions to protect, preserve, and improve the environment beyond what current laws require.

Heal the Ocean www.healtheocean.org
Local county non profit organization that focuses on the upkeep of sewage and septic systems to protect marine environments from contamination.

Land Trust for Santa Barbara County www.sblandtrust.org
Working to preserve open spaces for wildlife and agricultural use.

Los Padres Forest Watch http://lpfw.org/
Los Padres ForestWatch is a community-based nonprofit organization that works to preserve and restore the forests, mountain streams, rolling hills, wetlands, coastal areas, and wildlife of this spectacular area.

More Mesa Preservation Coalition (MMPC) www.moremesa.org
A group of concerned citizens committed to preserving More Mesa, a local undeveloped coastal bluff, in perpetuity.

Move Santa Barbara County  movesbcounty.org
Advocates for equitable county-wide infrastructure for walking, cycling, and public transit, and to empower and educate residents to choose active and sustainable forms of transportation.

NatureTrack http://www.naturetrack.org/
The not-for-profit NatureTrack advocates the educational approach that fosters a child's love of the earth while also developing a child's academic and social competence. NatureTrack provides outdoor field trips for Central Coast school-aged children.

Nuclear Age Peace Foundation www.wagingpeace.org
Based in Santa Barbara, the Foundation initiates and supports worldwide efforts to abolish nuclear weapons and to use technology responsibly and sustainably.

Ocean Futures www.oceanfutures.org
Dedicated to exploring and protecting the world’s oceans and their resources.

Ojai Raptor Center http://www.ojairaptorcenter.org/
The Ojai Raptor Center is dedicated to the rehabilitation and release of orphaned and injured birds of prey and to providing education programs to teach about raptors and our shared environment, reduce common hazards to wildlife and decrease the number of raptors that require assistance.

Pesticide Awareness and Alternatives Coalition http://www.beyondpesticides.org/states/ca/local_orgs.php
Formed in order to spread awareness of pesticide use in the Santa Barbara area and to educate residents about alternatives.

Project Clean Water www.sbprojectcleanwater.org
A coalition of government agencies and community groups devoted to investigating and implementing solutions to contaminated creeks in Santa Barbara.

San Marcos Foothills Coalition www.sanmarcosfoothills.org
Fighting for the protection of the San Marcos open space, the largest undeveloped area in South Santa Barbara County.

Santa Barbara Audubon Society https://santabarbaraaudubon.org/
A chapter of the National Audubon Society, committed to educating the community about birds and their habitats and supporting legislation and programs that preserve those habitats.

Santa Barbara Beekeepers Association http://www.sbba.org/
The Santa Barbara Beekeepers Association offers many services within the community, such as bee hosting, swarm removal, and educational classes.

Santa Barbara Bicycle Coalition www.sbbike.org
A group promoting bicycling for transportation and recreation.

Santa Barbara Botanic Garden http://www.sbbg.org/
Dedicated to the research, education, and conservation of California’s native plants.

Santa Barbara Car Free www.santabarbaracarfree.org
Promoting public and other modes of transportation as ways to reduce Santa Barbara’s dependence on the automobile.

Santa Barbara ChannelKeeper www.sbck.org
To protect and restore the Santa Barbara Channel and its watersheds through education, enforcement, and citizen action.

Santa Barbara County Action Network www.sbcan.org
A county-wide grassroots network dedicated to promoting social justice in conjunction with the preservation of natural resources.

Santa Barbara Hikes! www.santabarbarahikes.com
Descriptions and directions for hikes all over Santa Barbara’s front country and backcountry wilderness.

Santa Barbara Maritime Museum www.sbmm.org
Documenting Santa Barbara’s history with the sea.

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History www.sbnature.org
Educating the public about natural history with the goals of inspiring respect and passion for the natural world.

Santa Barbara Permaculture Network http://www.sbpermaculture.org/
The Santa Barbara Permaculture Network is an educational non-profit.

Santa Barbara Urban Creeks Council https://www.sburbancreeks.org/
Organization formed to preserve, protect, and restore our valuble urban creek system.

Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network www.sbwcn.org
Rescues and rehabilitates injured, orphaned, or oiled wild birds and small mammals.

Santa Barbara Zoo www.santabarbarazoo.org
Dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of the natural world through research and education.

Santa Cruz Island Foundation http://www.scifoundation.org/home.aspx
Historical organization dedicated to preserving the human heritage of Santa Cruz and the other Channel Islands.

Santa Ynez Chumash Environmental Office http://syceo.org/
The mission of SYCEO is to protect and enhance natural resources, provide a safe and healthy environment for community members and guest, promote sustainable economic opportunities and encourage environmental leadership.

SBCC Center for Sustainability https://www.sbcc.edu/sustainability/
The SBCC Center for Sustainability has various programs, including the Community Market, School Gardens, One Planet, Eco-Entrepreneurship, and Zero Waste.

Sierra Club, Los Padres Chapter https://www.sierraclub.org/santa-barbara-ventura
Local chapter of the Sierra Club; dedicated to protecting and enjoying the environment in the Santa Barbara area.

South County Energy Efficiency Partnership https://www.sceep.org/
Through local outreach events and educational resources, they provide easy solutions to reducing energy use in homes, businesses, and industries.

Sprout Up http://sproutup.org/
Through weekly classroom workshops, Sprout Up provides environmental lessons that help kids create a more sustainable world.

Sustainable Future  https://www.sustainablefuture.org
Sustainable Future is an environmental nonprofit that unites the community through its dynamic technology platform and gamified campaigns that highlights the best resources and actions that will make a tangible impact on personal, community, and environmental wellbeing to work towards a cleaner, safer, more vibrant tomorrow.

The Trust for Public Land https://www.tpl.org/
The Trust for Public Land conserves land for people to enjoy as parks, gardens, and other natural places, ensuring livable communities for generations to come.

Ty Warner Sea Center https://www.sbnature.org/visit/sea-center
The Sea Center is an engaging, interactive marine education facility that allows visitors to discover the fun in science and the wonders of the natural world.

Wilderness Youth Project http://www.wyp.org
Provides outdoor environmental education opportunities for youth in the Santa Barbara area.

 

Governmental

Beach Erosion Authority for Clean Oceans and Nourishment (B.E.A.C.O.N.) www.beacon.ca.gov
A combination of agencies working together to find solutions to coastal erosion and other issues along the central coast.

Cachuma Resource Conservation District https://www.rcdsantabarbara.org/
The Cachuma Resource Conservation District (CRCD) works with local landowners and groups throughout Santa Barbara County to conserve and improve natural resources such as water, soil, and habitat. CRCD provides voluntary, confidential counseling and technical assistance services to local individuals and groups to implement projects.

California Coastal Commission www.coastal.ca.gov
Government appointed commission that helps to collaborate with local and state government on land and resource use in the California coastal zone.

California Department of Fish and Game www.dfg.ca.gov
Manages a variety of habitats in and around Santa Barbara.

California State Parks www.parks.ca.gov
Make reservations or obtain information about any of California’s state parks.

Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary https://channelislands.noaa.gov/
Established in 1980 to protect the underwater resources immediately surrounding the California Channel Islands.

Channel Islands National Park www.nps.gov/chis
The closest national park to Santa Barbara, the Channel Islands are unspoiled beauty just off the coast!

City of Carpinteria https://carpinteriaca.gov/
Environmental opportunities in various departments, including Planning, Energy, and Parks & Recreation.

City of Goleta http://www.cityofgoleta.org/
Various divisions with environmental opportunities, including Planning & Environmental Review, Energy Projects, Parks & Open Space, Transportation, Storm Water Management, and Solid Waste & Environmental Services.

City of Lompoc http://www.cityoflompoc.com/
Environmental opportunities in various departments, including Planning, Transportation, Energy, Forestry, Conservation, Water, Waste, and Wastewater.

City of Santa Barbara http://www.SantaBarbaraCA.gov/
Various divisions with environmental opportunities, including the Transportation Division, Wastewater Systems, Water Conservation and Water Resources. Check out the Climate Action Plan, Creeks Advisory Committee, Parks & Recreation Commission, Planning Commission, Sustainability Committee, Transportation & Circulation Committee, and Water Commission. 

City of Santa Barbara Recycling Program http://www.santabarbaraca.gov/services/recycling/default.asp
The Recycling Program provides reliable, cost-effective collection of residential and commercial recyclables, greenwaste, foodscraps, and resuse through the city's franchised waste hauler, with a primary focus on maximizing diversion of solid waste from landfill disposal. 

City of Santa Barbara Water Conservation Program http://www.santabarbaraca.gov/gov/depts/pw/resources/conservation/default.asp
The Water Conservation Program focuses on home and business water conservation, free "water check-ups", free rain sensors, rebates on landscaping, clothes, and washers, and providing water wise gardening classes.

City of Santa Barbara, Waste & Wastewater Management http://santabarbaraca.gov/gov/depts/pw/resources/wastewater/default.asp
Waste & Wastewater Management focuses on the El Estero Wastewater Treatment Plant, collection systems, water testing, and recycled water.

City of Santa Maria https://www.cityofsantamaria.org/
Environmental opportunities in various departments including waste, water resources, and energy.

City of Ventura http://www.cityofventura.net/
Environmental opportunities in various departments including sustainability, transportation, rivers & estuaries, urban forestry, stormwater, wastewater, and water efficiency.

County of Santa Barbara http://www.countyofsb.org/ 
Environmental opportunities in various departments including water resources, waste product management, transportation, planning and development, energy, public works, and more. Check out emPowerSBC, which helps homeowners countywide overcome financial barriers to making energy saving improvements to their homes, and the Mosquito and Vector Management District.

County of Santa Barbara Parks Division http://countyofsb.org/parks/
Provides outdoor recreation opportunities in the Santa Barbara area.

County of Ventura http://www.countyofventura.org/
Environmental opportunities in various departments including planning, climate change and energy conservation, water and sanitation, groundwater resources and conservation.

Creeks Restoration and Water Quality Improvement Division, City of Santa Barbara 
http://www.santabarbaraca.gov/Resident/Community/Creeks
Mission is to improve creek and ocean water quality and restore natural creek systems with the implementation of storm water and urban runoff pollution reduction, creek restoration and community education programs.

Green Business Program - Santa Barbara County  http://www.greenbizsbc.org/
The GBP offers incentives and assistance to encourage businesses to implement voluntary actions to protect, preserve, and improve the environment beyond what current laws require.

Goleta Water District http://www.goletawater.com/
The District's mission is to provide an adequate supply of quality water at the most reasonable cost to the present and future customers within the Goleta Water District

Los Padres National Forest http://www.fs.usda.gov/lpnf/
Find information, maps, and trails for the National Forest in Santa Barbara’s backyard.

NOAA Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary & National Park http://channelislands.noaa.gov/
The sanctuary's primary goal is the protection of the natural and cultural resources contained within its boundaries.

Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District www.sbcapcd.org
A local government agency working to prevent air pollution and promote car-free transportation.

Santa Barbara County Association of Governments http://www.sbcag.org/ 
SBCAG is a regional planning agency that distributes local, state, and federal transportation funds and acts as a forum for addressing regional and multi-jurisdictional issues. Check out the Transportation Solutions division.

Santa Barbara MTD http://www.sbmtd.gov/
The mission of Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District is to enhance the personal mobility of South Coast residents and visitors by offering safe, clean, reliable, courteous, accessible, environmentally responsible, and cost-effective transit service throughout the District.

Santa Barbara County Water Agency http://sbwater.org/
The water conservation network for Santa Barbara County includes Santa Barbara County Water Agency, cities that provide water within the county, as well as water districts and community service districts. Together, these agencies sponsor programs that promote water conservation and awareness.

 

Private Organizations

*Disclaimer* The following local private organizations were found on public web pages, and the UCSB Environmental Studies Department is not affiliated with any of the companies listed. To find more about these companies, you should check out their individual websites.

Consulting

AECOM https://aecom.com/

ArrowTek http://www.arrow-tek.com/

Brown and Wilmanns Environmental, LLC http://www.bw-environmental.com/

California Institute for Environmental Studies http://ciesresearch.org/

Geosyntec Consultants http://www.geosyntec.com/

Daniel B. Stephens & Associates, Inc. http://www.dbstephens.com/

Dudek http://www.dudek.com

Earth Systems Southern California http://www.earthsys.com/

Geosyntec Consultants http://www.geosyntec.com/

Haley & Aldrich Inc. http://www.haleyaldrich.com/

ICF https://www.icf.com/

L. Everett & Associates http://everettassociates.net/

Padre Associates Inc http://www.padreinc.com/

Rincon Consultants, Inc. http://www.rinconconsultants.com/

Stantec https://www.stantec.com/en

Stokecher Ecological Consulting http://www.stoeckerecological.com/

Tetra Tech http://www.tetratech.com/

 

Law

Greben & Associates http://www.grebenlaw.com/

Hollister and Brace http://www.hbsb.com/

Law Office of Michael T. Lyons https://trafixxlaw.com/

Paladin Law Group, LLP http://www.paladinlaw.com/

 

Energy

Clipper Windpower http://www.clipperwind.com/

Infinity Wind Power http://www.corporate.energy/companies/Infinity_Wind_Power

Mac’s Solar http://www.macsolar.com

Planet Solar, Inc. http://www.planetsolar.com/

Southern California Edison https://www.sce.com/

 

Water

Advanced Water Solutions, Inc. http://www.advancedwaterinc.com/

GSI Water Solutions, Inc. http://gsiwatersolutions.com/

La Cumbre Mutual Water Company http://lacumbrewater.com/

Santa Barbara Water Company http://www.sbwaterco.com/

 

Planning

Allen and Associates Construction https://www.buildallen.com/

Mesa Lane Partners http://mesalanepartners.com/

Telios Environmental Design & Development https://www.teliosenvironmental.com/

Wilson Environmental Contracting http://www.weldesign.net/

 

Waste Management

MarBorg Industries http://www.marborg.com/

Safety-Kleen http://www.safety-kleen.com/

Waste Management Health Sanitation Service http://wmhss.wm.com/index.jsp

 

Misc. 

Cowan Communication Arts https://www.linkedin.com/company/cowan-communication-arts

Green2Gold http://www.green2gold.org/

LoaTree http://loatree.com/

The Cultured Abalone Farm llc. http://culturedabalone.com/

Apeel Sciences http://apeelsciences.com/

Local Organizations

Air & Waste Management Association (A&WMA)
Channel Island Chapter: http://www.wcsawma.org/
National: http://www.awma.org
The core purpose of A&WMA is to improve environmental knowledge and decisions by providing a neutral forum for exchanging information. The mission of A&WMA is to assist in the professional development and critical environmental decision-making of our members to benefit society

American Planning Association
Central Coast Section: http://www.centralcoastapa.org/
CA Chapter: https://www.apacalifornia.org/
National: http://www.planning.org
Aims to provide planning professionals, elected officials and community members with services, support and information to advance planning on the Central Coast of California and beyond.

California Association of Environmental Professionals
Channel Counties Chapter: http://www.califaep.org/
National: http://www.naep.org
Since its formation in 1974, AEP has grown to over 1,700 members: planners, environmental scientists, biologists, lawyers, noise specialists, transportation planners, paralegals, archeologists, geologists, engineers, visual analysts, and other professionals in numerous disciplines. There are nine regional AEP chapters including the Channel Counties Chapter.

California Regional Environmental Education Community (CREEC)
Central Coast: https://www.creec.org/Home/Region/8
The CREEC Network links teachers with high quality environmental education resources to improve the environmental literacy of all California students.

Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) http://swana.org
Central California Sierra Chapter: http://www.swanacal.com/
Southern California Founding Chapter: http://www.socalswana.org
For nearly 50 years, the Solid Waste Association of North America has been the leading professional association in the solid waste field. The association serves over 7,000 members throughout North America, and thousands more with conferences, certifications, publications, and technical training courses.

U.S. Green Building Council California
Central Coast Chapter: https://www.usgbccc.org/
Mission is to facilitate collaboration and be a unified voice for the tri-county Central California Coast region, to preserve and improve a unique quality of life and to promote a healthy and prosperous environment. 

 

National & Global Organizations

Alliance of Hazardous Materials Professionals (AHMP) https://www.ahmpnet.org/
AHMP is a professional association with a membership of more than 4,000 of the nation’s leading experts in environmental, health, safety and security management. AHMP is the only national organization devoted to the professional advancement of the hazardous materials management field.

American Outdoors Association https://www.americaoutdoors.org/
The American Outdoors Association is an international trade association for the world's finest adventure travel outfitters, tour companies and outdoor educators and their suppliers.

American Academy of Environmental Engineers (AAEE) http://www.aaees.org/
The American Academy of Environmental Engineers is dedicated to excellence in the practice of environmental engineering to ensure the public health, safety, and welfare to enable humankind to co-exist in harmony with nature.

American Fisheries Society (AFS) http://fisheries.org/
The mission of the American Fisheries Society is to improve the conservation and sustainability of fishery resources and aquatic ecosystems by advancing fisheries and aquatic science and promoting the development of fisheries professionals.

American Public Transportation Association (APTA) http://www.apta.com
As a member of the APTA, you are part of an international organization that has been representing the transit industry for over 100 years, since 1882. APTA members serve the public interest by providing safe, efficient and economical transit services, and by improving those services to meet national energy, environmental, and financial concerns. Over ninety percent of passengers using transit in the U.S. and Canada are carried by APTA members.

American Sanctuary Association (ASA) https://www.americansanctuaries.org/
Founded in 1998, the ASA is an accrediting organization that requires member animal sanctuaries to comply with a variety of high quality animal care standards and housing requirements. ASA actively works every single day to find sanctuary placement for a multitude of homeless, abandoned, seized and abused exotic animals, non-releasable native wild animals, farmed animals and companion animals.

American Society for Environmental History (ASEH) https://aseh.org/
The American Society for Environmental History increases understanding of the important role played by the environment throughout human history, from the earliest period to the crucial issues of our own time. Founded in 1977, the ASEH is a non-profit scholarly organization that promotes research and teaching as well as public outreach. Our membership is international and interdisciplinary - and those who join receive a subscription to our quarterly journal, Environmental History, published by Oxford University Press.

American Society of Limnology and Oceanography (ASLO) http://aslo.org/
A leading professional organization for researchers and educators in the field of aquatic science, working to provide for their needs at all phases of professional development. ASLO is best known for its highly rated research journals, its interdisciplinary meetings and its special symposia. The society supports increasingly important programs in public education and outreach and public policy. It strives to encourage student participation and to increase opportunities for minorities in the aquatic sciences.

American Solar Energy Society (ASES) http://www.ases.org/
The nonprofit American Solar Energy Society (ASES) is the nation's leading association of solar professionals & advocates. Our mission is to inspire an era of energy innovation and speed the transition to a sustainable energy economy. We advance education, research and policy.

American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) http://www.awea.org/
AWEA is a national trade association representing wind power project developers, equipment suppliers, services providers, parts manufacturers, utilities, researchers, and others involved in the wind industry - one of the world's fastest growing energy industries. In addition, AWEA represents hundreds of wind energy advocates from around the world.

Association of Environmental Studies and Sciences (AESS) https://aessonline.org/
The purpose of AESS is to serve the faculty, students and staff of the 1000+ interdisciplinary environmental programs in North America and around the world. They seek to strengthen teaching, research and service in environmental studies and sciences, and to improve communication across boundaries that too often divide the traditional academic disciplines.

Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies http://www.fishwildlife.org/
The Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies represents North America’s fish and wildlife agencies to advance sound, science-based management and conservation of fish and wildlife and their habitats in the public interest.

Association of Occupational and Environmental Clinics (AOEC) http://www.aoec.org/
Established in 1987 the Association of Occupational and Environmental Clinics, a non-profit organization, is committed to improving the practice of occupational and environmental health through information sharing and collaborative research.

Association of Postconsumer Plastic Recyclers (APR) http://www.plasticsrecycling.org/
The Association of Post-consumer Plastic Recyclers is the national trade association representing companies who acquire, reprocess and sell the output of more than 90 percent of the post-consumer plastic processing capacity in North America. APR promotes development of the plastics recycling industry by providing leadership for long-term industry growth and vitality.

Association of State Dam Safety Officials (ASDSO) http://www.damsafety.org
The Association of State Dam Safety Official’s mission is to advance and improve the safety of dams by supporting the dam safety community and state dam safety programs, raising awareness of dam safety issues, facilitating cooperation, providing a forum for the exchange of information, representing dam safety interests before governments, providing outreach programs, and creating a unified community of dam safety advocates.

Board for Global EHS Credentialing (BGC) https://gobgc.org/
BGC is one of the largest international associations serving the needs of occupational and environmental health and safety professionals practicing industrial hygiene in industry, government, labor, academic institutions, and independent organization.

Center for Watershed Protection https://cwp.org/
The Center for Watershed Protection is a national network of professionals dedicated to advancing the state-of-the-art in watershed and stormwater management.

Ecological Society of America (ESA) http://www.esa.org/
ESA is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization of scientists founded in 1915 to promote ecological science by improving communication among ecologists, raise the public's level of awareness of the importance of ecological science, increase the resources available for the conduct of ecological science, and ensure the appropriate use of ecological science in environmental decision making by enhancing communication between the ecological community and policy-makers.

Economics for Equity & Environment http://www.e3network.org/
Economics for Equity and the Environment Network is a national network of economists developing new and better arguments for protecting people and the planet. Through applied research and public engagement, they seek to improve decision-making and further understanding of the relationship between economy and ecology.

Forest Service Employees for Environmental Ethics (FSEEE) http://www.fseee.org/
FSEEE is a national organization of government employees holding the Forest Service accountable for responsible land stewardship.

Green Restaurant Association (GRA) http://www.dinegreen.com/
The GRA is a national non-profit organization that provides a convenient and cost-effective way for restaurants, manufacturers, distributors, and consumers to become more environmentally responsible.

Green Roof for Healthy Cities North America http://www.greenroofs.org/
Green Roofs for Healthy Cities’ mission is to increase the awareness of the economic, social and environmental benefits of green roofs and green walls, and other forms of living architecture through education, advocacy, professional development and celebrations of excellence

Institution of Occupational Safety & Health (IOSH) http://www.iosh.co.uk/
As the biggest health and safety membership organization in the world, IOSH is committed to creating a world of work that is safe, healthy and sustainable.

International District Energy Association (IDEA) http://www.districtenergy.org/
IDEA fosters the success of its members as leaders in providing reliable, economical, efficient and environmentally sound district energy services. They promote energy efficiency and environmental quality through the advancement of district heating, district cooling and cogeneration and actively lobbyto secure favorable policies, legislation and regulations for district energy.

International Hydropower Association http://www.hydropower.org/
IHA works to advance hydropower's role in sustainable solutions for clean energy, responsible freshwater management, and climate change. With members active in more than 80 countries, IHA is a non-governmental, mutual association of organizations and individuals. Their work falls into the two broad themes of sustainability and hydropower development.

International Solar Energy Society http://www.ises.org/
ISES promotes solar research and development, provides authoritative advice on renewable energy issues worldwide, advocates for a sustainable global solar industry, supports career growth of Young ISES members, and promotes energy education at all levels.  

International Society for Industrial Ecology (ISIE) http://www.is4ie.org/
ISIE is an interdisciplinary forum of natural and social scientists, engineers, policymakers and practitioners that advances systems based analysis methods, tools and solutions in pursuit of sustainable technology, product and service systems, and economies. They promote the use of industrial ecology in research, education, industrial practices, policy, and community development in order to transform society and achieve a more sustainable economy.

International Union of Air Pollution Prevention & Environmental Protection Associations http://www.iuappa.org/
IUAPPA's goal is to help develop and promote air quality solutions. It brings together governmental and non-governmental organizations from throughout the world to share scientific and technical information to help develop more effective air pollution control policies.

International Water Association https://iwa-network.org/
The International Water Association (IWA) is the global network of 10,000 water professionals spanning the continuum between research and practice and covering all facets of the water cycle.

NAEM – Association for EHS Management http://www.naem.org/
NAEM is a professional association that empowers corporate leaders to advance environmental stewardship, create safe and healthy workplaces, and promote global sustainability. As the largest network for Environmental, Health and Safety, and Sustainability decision-makers, they provide peer-led educational conferences and an active community for sharing solutions to today's corporate EHS and Sustainability management challenges.

National Association of Clean Air Agencies (NACAA) http://www.4cleanair.org/
International: http://www.cleanairworld.org/
The National Association of Clean Air Agencies (NACAA) represents air pollution control agencies in 45 states and territories and over 116 major metropolitan areas across the United States.

National Association of Environmental Professionals (NAEP) http://www.naep.org/
California Chapter: http://www.califaep.org/
NAEP is the multi-disciplinary association for professionals dedicated to the advancement of the environmental professions, a forum for state-of-the-art information on environmental planning, research and management, a network of professional contacts, a resource for structured career development from student memberships to certification as an environmental professional, and a strong proponent of ethics and the highest standards of practice in the environmental professions.

National Ground Water Association (NGWA) http://www.ngwa.org/
NGWA is composed of U.S. and international groundwater professionals — contractors, scientists and engineers, equipment manufacturers, and suppliers. Their purpose is to provide guidance to members, government representatives, and the public for sound scientific, economic, and beneficial development, protection, and management of the world's groundwater resources.

National Marine Educators Association (NMEA) http://www.marine-ed.org/
The NMEA brings together those interested in the study and enjoyment of both fresh and salt water and provides a focus for marine and aquatic studies all over the world.

North American Association of Environmental Education (NAAEE) https://naaee.org/
The North American Association for Environmental Education advances environmental education and supports environmental educators in Canada, the United States, and Mexico.

Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER) http://www.peer.org/
California Watch: http://www.peer.org/state-federal-watch/state-watch/ca.html
Federal Watch: http://www.peer.org/state-federal-watch/federal-watch/
PEER is a national alliance of local state and federal resource professionals. They work nation-wide with government scientists, land managers, environmental law enforcement agents, field specialists and other resource professionals committed to responsible management of America’s public resources.

Organic Consumers Association (OCA) http://www.organicconsumers.org/
OCA is an online and grassroots non-profit public interest organization campaigning for health, justice, and sustainability. They deal with crucial issues of food safety, industrial agriculture, genetic engineering, children's health, corporate accountability, Fair Trade, and environmental sustainability.

Society for Conservation Biology (SCB)
North American Region: http://www.conbio.org/groups/sections/north-america
International: http://www.conbio.org/
The SCB is an international professional organization dedicated to promoting the scientific study of the phenomena that affect the maintenance, loss, and restoration of biological diversity. The Society's membership comprises a wide range of people interested in the conservation and study of biological diversity: resource managers, educators, government and private conservation workers, and students make up the more than 5,000 members worldwide.  

Society for Ecological Restoration (SER) http://ser.org/
SER is dedicated to reversing degradation across the globe and restoring the earth’s ecological balance for the benefit of humans and nature.

Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) http://www.setac.org/
SETAC is a not-for-profit, global professional organization comprised of some 6,000 individual members and institutions from academia, business and government. Since 1979, the Society has provided a forum where scientists, managers and other professionals exchange information and ideas on the study, analysis and solution of environmental problems, the management and regulation of natural resources, research and development, and environmental education.

Society of Wetland Scientists(SWS) http://www.sws.org/
An international organization of about 3,500 members dedicated to fostering sound wetland science, education, and management.

Soil and Water Conservation Society (SWCS)
California-Nevada Chapter of SWCS: https://californianevadaswcs.org/blog/
National: http://www.swcs.org
Soil and Water Conservation Society (SWCS) is a nonprofit scientific and educational organization -- founded in 1943 -- that serves as an advocate for conservation professionals and for science-based conservation practice, programs, and policy.

Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) http://www.seia.org/
As the national trade association in the U.S., the SEIA is the power behind solar energy. Member companies research, manufacture, distribute, finance, and build solar projects domestically and abroad.

Water Environment Federation (WEF) http://www.wef.org/
California Association: https://www.cwea.org/
WEF’s Member Associations and Corresponding Associations provide exciting and informative activities and services to WEF members around the world. Their programs include high quality technical conferences, operator training & certification programs, local and regional legislative and regulatory activities, educational programs, and affiliations with other professional organizations.