Author: Mariah Morgan ’27
Where Artistry and Sustainability Meet
Overconsumption is a growing issue that significantly contributes to the staggering amount of waste sent to landfills each year, and the situation is only exacerbated by a culture of disposability and fast fashion. This rampant waste not only depletes natural resources but also poses a severe threat to our environment, leading to increased pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. In the realm of the creative arts, the need for sustainability is paramount, as traditional practices often rely on single-use materials that generate considerable waste. By adopting more sustainable practices, such as utilizing recycled materials and embracing innovative design solutions, artists and performers can reduce their environmental footprint and inspire audiences to think critically about consumption and waste. Not only does this approach preserve the planet for future generations, but it also enriches the creative process, allowing for new expressions of artistry that honor both creativity and environmental responsibility.
Vision and Goals of Princeton Green Creatives
In light of that view, Ava Kronman ’26 founded Princeton Green Creatives. Princeton Green Creatives began in 2024 as a student group whose main goal is to promote sustainable practices within the arts and to encourage a creative approach to addressing climate issues. By providing a space for students to explore the intersection of art and sustainability, the organization hopes to inspire innovative solutions and foster a deeper understanding of environmental challenges. The group is committed to creative advocacy and aims to make both the art and climate spaces more interdisciplinary and inclusive. In Kronman’s words, “We provide a space for creative individuals to engage with climate issues through advocacy and empathy. Our goal is to make art more sustainable by reusing goods and materials and sourcing more sustainable and natural tools.”
The leadership team is headed by Kronman as President, Collin Guedel ’26 as Chief Operating Officer and Treasurer, and Alice Chakrapeesirisuk ’26 as Architecture Chair and Graphic Designer. Currently, the team is actively recruiting leaders for different art positions, including Theater, Music, and Environmental chairs. In our interview with Kronman, we got to hear some of her unique insights into what the group has been up to:
What are some of your major events or accomplishments?
“One of our major accomplishments has been getting the club established and hosting our first interest meeting. We are currently working on recruiting more members and leaders for various arts positions.”
What got you interested in founding Green Creatives?
“I have always been very interested in the environment and in the arts. I wanted to create a space where students can explore this intersection and learn from each other. Princeton welcomes these conversations, and I am excited to build a community around bringing creative minds to the environmental problem solving table and bringing scientific research to art making processes.”
What are some upcoming events or projects the group will be working on?
“We are planning to invite speakers from various fields, such as Broadway and architecture, to share their insights. We also aim to hold art workshops, such as making reusable tote bags and make-up removers using natural materials. Additionally, we hope to collaborate with the Green Broadway Alliance and participate in Earth Day activities on campus.” They also plan to lead a redecoration project for the Ecolounge, which will include a new mural representing all the sustainability groups.
Getting Involved
Princeton Green Creatives is dedicated to bridging the gap between the arts and sustainability, offering a collaborative space for innovative solutions and environmental advocacy. For more information or to get involved, follow their social media accounts, join their club page on MyPrincetonU, and listserv, or contact Ava Kronman directly at ak6060@princeton.edu. Stay tuned for their upcoming events and projects this fall!
Citations:
Environment, U. (n.d.). Sustainability. UNEP. https://www.unep.org/about-un-environment/sustainability
Environmental Protection Agency. (n.d.-a). EPA. https://www.epa.gov/facts-and-figures-about-materials-waste-and-recycling