Over 50 years ago four separate pollution events occurred in San Luis Obispo Creek in downtown SLO. Cal Poly biologists and students investigated, discovering thousands of dead fish and a severely damaged ecosystem. Their efforts to protect this local creek led to the creation of the Environmental Center of San Luis Obispo - ECOSLO!

In November 1971 we opened the first recycling center in SLO County.  In February 1972 ECOSLO officially became recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, dedicated to protecting and preserving SLO County's natural resources.