Credit: Gosia Sklodowska
How did you get interested in environmental/sustainability issues?
I was born on a Mountain top in Tennessee (literally) and have always been passionate about the outdoors. I am also profoundly influenced by environmental children’s classics such as The Lorax by Dr. Seuss, my days as a camp counselor in the backwoods of Maine and for the Massachusetts Audubon Society, and my educational/research experiences at Connecticut College, Columbia University’s Biosphere 2 Center, and the Desert Botanic Gardens in Tempe/Phoenix AZ.
How are you currently involved in environmental/sustainability projects/issues at Harvard?
I am a member of the FAS/Harvard’s Ecocitzens group and founded and chair our Green Team in the Development Office. Our work as a Green Team here at AA&D impacts not only staff but the 124 Mt. Auburn Building at large, as well as Harvard alumni.
What is your appraisal of the future of sustainability initiatives at Harvard and elsewhere?
It’s evolving with the times. As long as there continues to be support from the Top and Harvard College students continue to ask the right questions, conduct research, understand national/international politics/legislation, and remain generally active then we have a very promising future.
What are some ways that an individual can contribute to a sustainable future that you feel are easy to put into practice?
There is plenty you can do on a small scale (recycling, living within your means, attending workshops etc). I believe that one of the best things a global citizen can do is read the right books/articles to their children/infants/students. Let them ask questions and direct them (do not push them) towards the right places for answers. I think a good place to start is with Dr. Seuss’s The Lorax. In fact, to answer this question simply print the following: Read your children The Lorax by Dr. Seuss….it’s a good place to start.
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