IVCSD cleans I.V. streets with Earthcomb, launch move-in education program

The Isla Vista Community Services District partnered with environmental organization Earthcomb LLC to expel post move-out litter on the streets of Isla Vista this summer and launched a Move-In Education and Resource Campaign to promote sustainability in the moving process.

According to a Sept. 11 press release, Earthcomb — an environmental organization focused on litter removal in Santa Barbara — offered an employment opportunity to those experiencing homelessness to do one month of daily street cleaning from June 8 to July 8, which resulted in 37,000 pounds of litter being disposed of from I.V. streets.

“The partnership with Earthcomb during Move-Out is a shining success for our district. Earthcomb’s consideration of ocean runoff is something I am personally proud of,” Isla Vista Community Services District (IVCSD) Board of Directors President Marcos Aguilar said in the press release.

IVCSD also announced its plans for a new move-in education and resource program, starting with a Move-In Market that took place Sept. 17-18. The market sold secondhand items from June move-out while providing residents with affordable and waste-reducing options.

“Not only were we able to give these items a second chance at life by saving them from the landfill, but we were also able to send these items back into Isla Vista where they belong,” Isla Vista Beautiful Program Manager Jenna Norton said in a statement to the Nexus. “In addition, we distributed resources on how to integrate sustainable practices into everyday life.”

Other IVCSD initiatives include a Move-In Magazine containing advice about sustainable living, a free unwanted item pickup service and recycling education resources.

“We hope that students will be inspired to create less waste throughout the entire year and responsibly rid of unwanted items once the school year comes to an end,” Norton said. “The best way to rid of unwanted items in June is to donate them to the Give Benefit Sale which takes place at Embarcadero Hall.”