Alyssa Webster

What does sustainability mean to you?

Growing up, sustainability sounded like a buzzword that people who were super passionate about recycling threw around. However, I’ve learned that there’s much more to it than that; there are important economic and social components as well. Now, I’ve come to think of sustainability as more of a descriptor for systems that are built to last, mutually beneficial for all involved, and don’t exploit natural and human resources beyond their capacity to give.

Why is sustainability important to you?

My definition of sustainability has been changing constantly since I moved to Bellingham, started my coursework in environmental science, and became involved with various groups on campus. I come from a small town that feels very close to nature, where sustainability isn’t something that’s talked about, and there’s this perception that the world is too big for humans to have lasting impacts on the earth.

What work have you undertaken related to the four pillars of sustainability (ecology, human health, economic vitality, social equity)?

When I was first interested in pursuing environmental science I had a lot of misplaced frustration toward individual consumer choices as the reasons behind environmental degradation. Today, I’m learning more and more about how people’s ways of life are determined by systems of power, individual limitations, and normal process. Some of this realization has come from schoolwork and independent learning, but it has also come from the Community Ambassadors for Sustainability program, in which I have been involved the last two years, as well as the opportunity to help with the development of the Environmental Justice Minor. Through the Sustainability Ambassadors program I’ve worked (to varying degrees of involvement) with the York Community Farm, North West Youth Services’ We Grow Garden, Sustainable Connections, East Whatcom Regional Resource Center, and the Whatcom Peace and Justice Center. I spent most of my time at the York Community Farm, where farm director Mary Loquvam applies a strong social justice lens to her work, employing primarily veterans, those who struggle with homelessness, or were recently incarcerated. She provides employment opportunities in a great work environment, teaching practical skills, and offering access to healthy farm-grown foods.