Sustainable Systems Research Foundation

The Sustainable Systems Research Foundation (SSRF) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization headquartered in Santa Cruz, California. It functions as a green think tank and project incubator, focusing on designing, developing, and deploying local sustainable projects. The SSRF emphasizes community development through citizen science and engineering, aiming to address complex environmental and sustainability challenges that cannot be resolved solely at a global scale[1].

Mission

The mission of the Sustainable Systems Research Foundation is to design and build a sustainable and just civilization by implementing sustainable systems through policy, education, research, and infrastructure. The organization emphasizes the importance of local, replicable, and scalable projects. These projects are grounded in best practices derived from successful models elsewhere, with adjustments made to suit local conditions[1][3].

Focus Areas

• Renewable Energy and Distributed Energy Resources: The SSRF explores innovative approaches to energy systems, including solar dividends as a sustainable funding model for guaranteed basic incomes[3].
• Regenerative and Sustainable Agriculture: The foundation promotes regenerative agriculture practices through workshops and collaborations, enhancing agricultural sustainability and supporting small farm operators in Santa Cruz, Santa Clara, Monterey, and San Benito counties[3].
• Environmental Justice and Waste Management: The organization addresses broader environmental challenges, focusing on issues like access to transportation, energy affordability, and waste management[1].

Structure and Finances

Donations to the SSRF are tax-deductible, with the organization relying primarily on contributions for funding. As of recent filings, the SSRF had no outstanding liabilities and managed its assets carefully[2]. However, it currently faces challenges in maintaining its California state registrations, affecting direct donation capabilities[4].

Community Impact

The Sustainable Systems Research Foundation plays a vital role in nurturing local sustainability initiatives across the Santa Cruz and Monterey Bay regions. By incubating and organizing projects in energy, agriculture, housing, and waste management, it fosters replicable and scalable models that can be adapted to other communities[1]. The organization collaborates with numerous stakeholders to ensure its projects align with community needs and are implemented effectively.