The Orange County Sustainability Decathlon (OCSD) is excited to announce that Orange County Fifth District Supervisor Katrina Foley has championed a grant from the County of Orange that provides the Decathlon with $100,000 in funding.
As a leader and advocate for sustainability, Supervisor Foley recognizes the importance of investing in innovative solutions for a more sustainable future. This grant will provide critical support for the OCSD, a competition that challenges student teams to design and build sustainable homes using the latest technologies and materials.
“Supporting the Orange County Sustainability Decathlon is an investment in our community’s future,” said Supervisor Foley. “With escalating wildfire seasons, persistent drought conditions, erosion of our sandy beaches, and local train tracks falling into the ocean, it’s clear Orange County must be a climate leader. I’m proud to champion this grant and support the innovative ideas and solutions necessary to help us build a more sustainable Orange County.”
The OCSD will take place in October 2023 at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, Calif., bringing together local, national, and international students to showcase sustainable home designs that prioritize energy efficiency, water conservation, and environmental sustainability.
“One of the aims of the Orange County Sustainability Decathlon is to grow ‘green’ jobs in Orange County, said Fred Smoller, OCSD president. “This generous grant will help us do that.”
“We are grateful to Supervisor Foley for her leadership and support,” added Mike Wassmer, Orange County Sustainability Decathlon competition director. “This grant will help us continue to promote sustainable housing and inspire the next generation of innovators and leaders.”
The OCSD provides a unique opportunity for collegiate teams to showcase their innovative sustainable home designs and compete for awards and recognition. Aside from the competition, the Decathlon will host the STEAM Student Showcase, an event in which high school and college students create sustainability-themed structures and exhibits for display at the fairgrounds. By promoting sustainable design and encouraging the adoption of energy-efficient technologies, the Decathlon will help create a more sustainable future for Orange County and beyond.
For more information on the Orange County Sustainability Decathlon, visit www.ocsd23.com.
