Jessica Bateman on Sustainability Internships

Jessica Bateman - Evergreen Student graduating in June 2009

Office of Sustainability: When did you first become interested in sustainability?

Jessica: The first time I learned about sustainability was during my first class here at Evergreen two summers ago.  I learned of the connection between environmental health and social equity and became aware of how my actions directly affect individuals within the global community.  Once I became aware of that connection I began to feel a sense of responsibility and I didn’t want to contribute to environmental degradation or social inequities!  For me sustainability means living in a way that doesn’t harm others or the environment.

Office of Sustainability: How did you get involved with the Department of Health?

Jessica: I was inspired by my faculty members and by Focus the Nation and wanted to volunteer or work in sustainability.  I went to Evergreen Office of Sustainability to ask about opportunities.  A couple of days later, I received a call from the Director of Sustainability about a possible internship at the Department of Health in Tumwater.  About a month after I began the internship I was offered full time employment as a management analyst.

Office of Sustainability: What projects have you worked on or are you working on now?

Jessica: Recently I did research and compiled data for our agency’s annual sustainability report that we turn in to the Department of Ecology.  Currently, I am working on initiating a composting program at DOH’s Tumwater campus.  We have four buildings that currently recycle comingled material and I am working on initiating a waste audit to analyze the composition of our waste so we can see the amount of possible compost material.

Office of Sustainability: In what ways do you incorporate sustainability into your life?

Jessica: For me, incorporating sustainable practices into my life has been a work in progress and a practice.  I shop at the Olympia food Co-op and am a member of their ecological planning committee.  I try to buy local organic food whenever possible.  At home I try to conserve energy by using energy efficient light bulbs and wash my clothes in cold water.  I try to take the bus, consolidate my trips driving, and carpool to reduce my use of fossil fuels.  Recently I stopped watching TV and have been reading more and cooking!  When I came to Evergreen a little over a year ago I only engaged in recycling to do my part.  I was completely unaware of the potential impact each of us can do to make a difference.  I am not perfect, but I try to make decisions that reflect my beliefs and values.

Office of Sustainability: What advice would you give other Evergreen students?

Jessica: If you’re passionate about sustainability get involved here at school and in the greater community.  At Evergreen we have awesome resources that enable us to become educated and pro-active in creating positive change!  There are classes on environmental and social justice; we have students groups, and the Office of Sustainability!  Focus on what you can do!  Nobody is perfect and small changes do make a difference!