CSULB and California Resources Corporation Combine Forces to Save Coastal Environments
The College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics (CNSM) at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) is proud to team up with California Resources Corporation (CRC) to create the new Urban Coast Fund (UCF)! The UCF will allow for advancements in research and education into our coastal environments.
This fund will focus on sustainability and community engagement, two areas essential to environmental protection, especially important to Biological Sciences Department Chair, Jesse Dillon, Ph.D., "The UCF is important for improving understanding of human impacts such as pollution and habitat loss that arise from urbanization and for devising ways of restoring these important coastal resources."
Given that CSULB itself famously sits on an urban coast, this kind of research is vital for our community. Through the support of the UCF, CNSM will be able to increase student and faculty research related to the ecology of the urban coast, including paired mentorships, meeting travel expenses, shared student/faculty projects, and supplies funding for labs.
"California Resources Corporation is proud to collaborate with CSULB's College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics through our support of the Urban Coast Fund," said Francisco Leon, President and CEO of CRC. "We recognize the critical role that academia plays in advancing environmental research and education, and we are excited to contribute to the university's efforts to protect and enhance our coastal ecosystems. CRC is committed to meeting California's high energy demand and building a viable carbon management business to help the state meet its ambitious climate goals."
CRC's collaboration with CNSM underscores a shared vision for environmental sustainability and the importance of public-private partnerships to address pressing ecological challenges. By pooling resources, expertise, and innovation, this alliance will drive forward-thinking solutions that benefit both the environment and local communities.
"We are delighted to welcome California Resources Corporation as a key partner in our mission to safeguard and enrich urban coastal ecosystems," said Curtis D. Bennett, Ph.D., Richard D. Green Dean of the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics at CSULB. "CRC's commitment to environmental stewardship aligns seamlessly with our goals, and their support will enable us to expand our reach and make a tangible difference in the communities we serve."
"Ultimately, this partnership gives our students the opportunity to research, but also the opportunity to do good and really give back to the community," said Chair of the Earth Science Department, Lora Stevens, Ph.D., "Our world is the world of the urban coast, and it’s up to us, and future generations, to protect it."
For more information about the Urban Coast Fund and opportunities for involvement, please contact CNSM Director of Development, Christina Hall at Christina.Hall@csulb.edu.
