Surplus Goods Management

UCLA currently lacks a standardized procedure for managing surplus durable goods, resulting in avoidable waste, budget inefficiencies, and missed opportunities for community support. Many universities have effectively addressed this issue by implementing some form of centralized surplus management system, which redistributes durable goods effectively within the university and community. This report presents the research conducted by UCLA’s Sustainability Action Research (SAR) Surplus Goods Team. The team sought to design a management program to increase waste diversion and reuse of surplus on campus on a systemic level while prioritizing practicality and strengthening community ties.

The team conducted surveys of campus departments, visual audits with Facilities Management, and interviews with stakeholders and peer institutions to map UCLA’s current system and develop a scalable, equity-centered model. The proposal emphasizes accessibility, student and community involvement, and integration with existing sustainability goals. Preliminary findings reveal key opportunities to divert waste and redistribute goods to under-resourced schools and nonprofit partners like AltaSea. This project highlights a pathway for UCLA to reduce environmental impact, support equity, and serve as a model for other UC campuses.

Stakeholder: Bonny Bentzin, Deputy Chief Sustainability Officer

Team Leads: Kiley Larkin and Lucia Metcalfe

Team Members: Dayna Coates, Isabella Tandradinata, Rebecca Kam, and Mathew Ye