Category: Sustainability Group Spotlights

Author: Jillard De Fiesta ’27

Does Princeton Have a Garden? Hint: The Answer is Yes!

Do you like gardening? Ever wondered if Princeton had a garden? The Princeton Garden Project aims to educate the Princeton community through organic agriculture while promoting sustainable practices. According to one study, a lack of gardening spaces in U.S. university campuses limits growth, both socially and educationally. The Princeton Garden Project provides a space to cultivate learning and crops, which encourages sustainable behavior and pro-environmentalism attitudes. 

Visions and Goals of the Princeton Garden Project

The Princeton Garden Project is an organic, student-run garden that allows students to engage in sustainable practices. The Project is currently led by four managers: Rio Baran ’25, Raphi Gold ’26, Alex Gayer ’27, Liz Kunz ’27, Carter McLean ’27, and Josie Veilleux ’27. Some activities within the garden include composting, hydroponics, and companion planting. Moreover, the project informs the campus and its participants the importance of sustainable practices such as providing awareness on the impact of hydroponics, encouraging the use of local seeds, and rejecting pesticides.

A big part of the Garden Project is their commitment to the practice of hydroponics and educating the community on its importance. In a study by Rajaseger et al., the implementation of hydroponics is said to promote environmentally friendly crop production. It is an optimized method of ensuring food security and food production since hydroponics systems can efficiently operate regardless of the weather conditions. Hydroponics also departs from the use of pesticides, produces minimum waste, and encourages pest management that is not harmful to the environment. Lastly, the future of hydroponics has great potential with its current development in AI systems, truly making it a forefront for smart agriculture.

A major event that the Princeton Garden Project hosts is the Fall Festival. A common activity is pot planting and painting, and the project likes to showcase their harvest — cucumbers, tomatoes, sweet peas, and more. Some of the harvest is even shared to donate to co-ops on campus, food banks such as Arm in Arm, volunteers, and other places. The Princeton Garden Project is also a regular participant in the University’s Earth Week events. Other events include hosting guest speakers and collaborations with the SEED farm, an organization composed of community partners who strive to cultivate native crops. 

When asked about what interested them to participate in the Princeton Garden Project, project manager Raphi Gold said that she “took a farming gap year, going to small homesteads,” in which she learned she wanted to get involved in more gardening, despite not being exposed to much of it while growing up. She also enjoys “the physical act of gardening, getting more connected to the outdoors, and connecting with other people.” Rio Baran, another project manager, also shares how they “grew up on the iris flower farm” and enjoys how “people find stories in the garden.”

Getting Involved

The Princeton Garden Project is a great opportunity for those interested in creating a community where you can work outside and grow some delicious veggies! They always welcome any volunteers, so be sure to attend their weekly open hours and events such as the Fall Festival, more information coming soon! You can also join their GroupMe here: https://groupme.com/join_group/89508735/dBWaGS9d. To learn more about their organization, please visit their website at https://princetongardenproject.wordpress.com/ and follow their Instagram @princetongardenproject. 

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Citations: 

De Young, R., Scheuer, K., Roush, J., & Kozeleski, K. (2016). Student interest in campus community gardens: Sowing the seeds for direct engagement with sustainability. World Sustainability Series, 161–175. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-26866-8_10 

Rajaseger, G., Chan, K. L., Yee Tan, K., Ramasamy, S., Khin, M. C., Amaladoss, A., & Kadamb Haribhai, P. (2023, September 30). Hydroponics: Current trends in sustainable crop production. Bioinformation. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10625363/ 

Author: Anherutowa Calvo ’27

The Food Waste Crisis in the U.S.

In the United States, food waste has reached staggering levels, with an estimated 30–40% of the food supply going uneaten each year. This not only represents a significant loss of resources, but also contributes to environmental degradation. When food waste ends up in landfills, it decomposes anaerobically, producing methane — a potent greenhouse gas that exacerbates climate change. The environmental and economic costs of food waste have prompted initiatives aimed at reducing waste and finding sustainable ways to manage what is discarded. Composting has emerged as a key strategy in mitigating the impact of food waste, turning potential pollutants into valuable resources for soil health and agricultural productivity.

Advancing Sustainability: The Vision and Operations of the S.C.R.A.P. Lab

At the heart of Princeton University’s sustainability initiatives lies the S.C.R.A.P. Lab (Sustainable Composting Research at Princeton). Established in 2018, this innovative project, part of the Office of Sustainability, aims to tackle food waste and promote eco-friendly practices on campus. We spoke with Eddie Kong ’27, operations assistant at the S.C.R.A.P. Lab, to gain insight into the lab’s operations, goals, and impact.

The S.C.R.A.P. Lab serves as a pilot program to explore how composting and sustainability can be integrated into campus life on a larger scale. Located on Washington Road, the lab’s primary goal is to evaluate and refine composting practices, starting with food scraps collected from the Frist Campus Center. By transforming these scraps into nutrient-rich compost, the lab aims to create a sustainable model that can be expanded across Princeton University.

The lab features two main components essential for effective composting: a shredder and an aerobic composting machine. The shredder cuts through the food- loaded by the S.C.R.A.P. Lab team- and then the tinier sized pieces of food are transported up the auger and into the composting vessel, while the composting machine adds circulation and air to ensure aerobic respiration. This process prevents methane production, which occurs during anaerobic respiration and facilitates the breakdown of organic matter by beneficial bacteria. Kong elaborates on the operational structure: “We have 1–3 assistants per shift. The person at the shredder machine alternates between loading food waste compostable serviceware- such as the ones used at Frist Gallery- and wood chips to aid the composting process. On the other end, assistants meticulously sort through composting trash bags from the Frist Campus Center, removing contaminants to ensure only compostable materials remain.”

The S.C.R.A.P. Lab utilizes a FOR Solutions Model 1000 in-vessel composting system capable of processing up to 5,000 pounds of organic waste per week. The process begins with the input of food scraps, wood shavings, and oxygen. The shredder breaks down these materials before they enter the composting vessel. Inside the vessel, a blower system aerates the mixture every 15 minutes, providing the necessary oxygen for aerobic bacteria to efficiently decompose the organic matter. The drum rotates every hour, ensuring thorough mixing and preventing anaerobic conditions. The result is nutrient-dense compost produced in just five days, along with outputs of water vapor, biogenic CO2, and heat.

Research and Impact

The S.C.R.A.P. Lab’s influence extends beyond day-to-day operations. The lab also facilitates microbial analysis, regenerative agriculture, and urban resilience projects, highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of sustainability research at Princeton. The lab has secured grants for research, allowing students to explore various aspects of composting, such as the effectiveness of different types of wood used in the machines. These research efforts contribute to a deeper understanding of sustainable waste management practices. Since its inception, the S.C.R.A.P. Lab has converted over 150 tons of wasted food into compost and saved 100 tons of CO2-eq. Recently, they have received approval to transition the S.C.R.A.P lab from a pilot program to operational status! This means this will be receiving more support from Facilities, training more lead operators, and focusing on composting post-consumer organics. They will additionally have more bandwidth to include more partnerships! 

Getting Involved

The S.C.R.A.P. Lab embodies Princeton University’s commitment to sustainability, providing a practical and impactful approach to waste management. By fostering a community of environmentally conscious individuals, the lab is paving the way for a greener future on campus and beyond. Princeton students can support the S.C.R.A.P. Lab by increasing their awareness of what is compostable, particularly by following guidelines at the Frist Campus Center bins. Interested students can find opportunities to join the S.C.R.A.P. Lab on JobX, with positions available throughout the year. The lab welcomes all help, offering various shift options to accommodate different schedules. To get involved or learn more, visit Princeton University’s S.C.R.A.P. Lab website.

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Citations:

Food Waste Faqs. USDA. (n.d.-a). https://www.usda.gov/foodwaste/faqs 

The Trustees of Princeton University. (n.d.-a). Composting at Princeton | Sustainability at princeton. Princeton University. https://sustain.princeton.edu/scrap-lab 

The Trustees of Princeton University. (n.d.-c). Princeton University’s new Biodigester makes food scraps sustainable. Princeton University. https://www.princeton.edu/news/2019/01/09/princeton-universitys-new-biodigester-makes-food-scraps-sustainable 

The Trustees of Princeton University. (n.d.-c). Follow our zero waste guide | sustainability at princeton. Princeton University. https://sustain.princeton.edu/resources/zero-waste 

Author: Anherutowa Calvo ’27

The Energy Crisis: An Urgent Environmental Challenge

The world is currently grappling with an energy crisis that poses a significant threat to both the environment and global stability. The increasing energy demand, coupled with our heavy dependence on non-renewable resources, has led to the depletion of conventional energy reserves and significant environmental damage. This reliance on fossil fuels not only strains our energy supplies but also exacerbates environmental issues such as air and water pollution, habitat destruction, and the rapid progression of climate change. The energy sector is one of the largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions, making the transition to sustainable energy solutions a critical priority for ensuring a livable future. Addressing this crisis requires a multifaceted approach that includes technological innovation, policy reform, and widespread education on energy issues.

Leading the Charge: PUEA’s Vision, Structure, and Impact

At the forefront of Princeton’s sustainability efforts, the Princeton University Energy Association (PUEA) is spearheading initiatives that bridge the gap between energy education and real-world applications. We spoke with Cameron Farid, a rising junior in the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering department and the President of PUEA, to gain insights into their vision, goals, and impact. Founded in 2014, PUEA aims to educate and excite people about energy opportunities, emphasizing the interdisciplinary nature of energy that spans humanities, engineering, finance, and more. They strive to build a community where diverse conversations about energy can thrive, and they are actively working to expand their alumni network connections. According to Farid, energy impacts every facet of our lives, and PUEA’s interdisciplinary approach helps members appreciate its broad implications. His interest in energy issues was sparked during a high school debate project on fracking. This experience revealed the complexity of energy issues and ignited his passion for learning more about the energy sector. His involvement with PUEA has allowed him to explore these interests deeply and contribute to meaningful projects that align with his passion for sustainability.

As the largest energy group on campus with 70 active members, PUEA highlights research and efforts toward energy transition, clean tech, and practical sustainability solutions. Their focus on energy encompasses economic, technological, and environmental aspects. The group’s work in promoting renewable energy sources and sustainable practices underscores their dedication to environmental stewardship. PUEA has a structured approach with specialized roles, including general members who participate in the annual energy conference and weekly club dinners, and various subteams. These subteams include the conference planning team, journal team, and community outreach team, each playing a crucial role in the organization’s activities. Leadership positions include President, Vice-President, Treasurer, Social Chair, and directors for each key area. The strong alumni network, boasting over 500 members, further supports the organization’s initiatives.

PUEA’s annual conference is a significant event, attracting over 300 attendees and influential speakers from around the world, including representatives from Japan and leaders in the coal mining industry during the most recent conference. The journal team publishes insightful research, and PUEA hosts weekly dinners to provide a platform for engagement and discussion. Collaborations with solar non-profits like RE-volv demonstrate their commitment to community service and sustainability, reinforcing their role as a catalyst for change both on campus and beyond. They’re planning the next annual conference for September, alongside recruitment for the conference team. Past events have included an energy and clean-tech social event on April 23, and a field trip to the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory, a major climate research hub. These events reflect the organization’s commitment to continuous learning and engagement in the energy sector. 

Getting Involved

Princeton students eager to make a tangible impact on energy sustainability can find a welcoming community in the Princeton University Energy Association. As the largest energy-focused student group on campus, PUEA offers myriad opportunities — from attending weekly dinners and major conferences to participating in specialized sub-teams — that cater to a wide range of interests within the energy sector. Engaging with PUEA not only allows students to delve into interdisciplinary energy issues but also connects them with a robust alumni network passionate about driving change. To become part of this dynamic organization or to learn more about their initiatives, visit their website and follow them on Instagram at, @princetonenergyassociation.

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Citations:

The Trustees of Princeton University. (n.d.-d). Princeton University Energy Association. Princeton University. https://puea.princeton.edu/. 

Fuels fix. Fuels Fix – Clean Cities stories & alternative fuels news. (2023, August 28). https://www.fuelsfix.com/ 

Author: Tavia Bryan ’27

Why We Need Conservation

Deforestation is unequivocally one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time, leading to significant and often irreversible impacts on biodiversity, climate stability, and indigenous communities. Forests play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide, regulating the earth’s climate, and supporting a vast array of plant and animal species. However, deforestation — driven by agriculture, logging, and urbanization — destroys these ecosystems. It contributes to habitat loss, species extinction, and increased greenhouse gas emissions. Conservation efforts are vital to protect and restore these forests, and all the rich biodiversity that comes with it. By supporting conservation, we can help safeguard the planet’s natural heritage for future generations and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

The Princeton Conservation Society (PCS) is a group on campus that puts this ideal at the forefront of its mission. Founded in 2017, PCS is a student-led organization dedicated to active environmental conservation and fostering a supportive community. We had the pleasure of speaking with Co-Presidents Connie Gong ’25 and Alliyah Gregory ’25, as well as Vice President Julianne Somar ’26 to explore the organization’s mission, structure, and activities.

Vision and Goals of Princeton Conservation Society

PCS continually strives to redefine its vision and goals, emphasizing hands-on conservation efforts, integrating service-learning and education, and cultivating a diverse and inclusive community. Gong notes that PCS has broadened their focus in recent years to include both domestically and internationally environmental stewardship, such as tree-planting projects. Through practical experiences such as tree-planting, members not only contribute to conservation efforts but also gain valuable knowledge and skills. Sommar highlights that the integration of service-learning with educational components is central to PCS’s activities. By engaging in these activities, PCS aims to foster a dedicated group of individuals who support each other in their shared mission and deepen their understanding of the broader impact. Gong also emphasizes the importance of including Native and Indigenous perspectives in environmental discussions. Recognizing that conversations about the environment cannot exclude the perspectives of those who have historically stewarded the land, PCS is committed to enhancing the involvement and representation of Indigenous people in their initiatives.

Their group operates with a horizontal organizational structure that emphasizes equality and collaboration among its members. Although there are formal roles such as Co-Presidents, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer, these positions are primarily focused on logistical and facilitative duties rather than hierarchical control. In addition, PCS includes specialized roles such as Trips Chair, Media Chair, and Events Chair, each dedicated to managing specific activities and initiatives, further supporting the organization’s collaborative ethos. 

Both Gong and Somar emphasize the importance of ensuring everyone’s ideas  and contributions are equally valued, promoting a more inclusive and democratic decision-making process. Somar, an animal lover, joined PCS in the fall of her first year  despite having no prior involvement in sustainability. She was driven by a desire to contribute meaningfully to a club she truly believed in and to engage in hands-on service. Gong, on the other hand, joined PCS in her first-year spring, bringing with her a longstanding commitment in sustainability, cultivated through her high school’s green team and her county’s office of sustainability. She was drawn to PCS’s transparent, non-hierarchical structure and welcoming environment, which allowed her the freedom to shape her involvement and pursue leadership roles. 

PCS has made notable strides in recent years, achieving several significant milestones, reflecting its commitment to environmental conservation and community engagement. A major accomplishment was hosting a speaker event featuring acclaimed author of “Braiding Sweetgrass,” Robin Wall Kimmerer. Among the event attendees was the Lenni Lenape Tribal Nation. PCS invited them both to foster dialogue between Indigenous nations about sustainability and in an act of reciprocity for the Nation’s support and participation in a past PCS event: the Youth Climate and Conservation Summit. Last fall, PCS made a notable impact by planting 30 trees in Trenton in collaboration with the New Jersey Tree Foundation. Their partnership continued into the spring, further demonstrating their commitment to hands-on conservation efforts. PCS local initiatives also include venturing to New York City for a bioblitz in Central Park, using iNaturalist to document the park’s rich biodiversity, and organizing a clothing swap during the spring semester  to promote sustainable fashion and environmental awareness. 

On the international front, PCS undertook a notable trip to Panama, their first in several years, collaborating with Pro Eco Azuero in one of the most deforested regions, with the trip providing valuable learning experiences. PCS has also previously hosted the Youth Climate and Conservation Summit (YCCS) in spring of 2023, where they engaged with youth climate activists from countries such as Colombia, Uganda, and the Philippines. Looking ahead, Somar notes that PCS is in the process of forming a partnership with Mountain Lakes Reserve to address invasive species.

Getting Involved 

Princeton Conservation Society has made remarkable strides since its founding in 2017, distinguishing itself with an unwavering commitment to environmental conservation and community building. Driven by the personal passions of its members, PCS continually refines its mission. PCS invites Princeton students to get involved, whether through attending weekly meetings or actively participating in community events, to collectively work towards a more sustainable future. Princeton students interested in getting involved can start by joining their listserv and GroupMe, and attending their weekly meetings typically held on Sundays at 5 p.m. in the Campus Club library. While regular attendance at meetings is encouraged, it is not mandatory for active involvement — students can participate in community events or event-focused meetings whenever their schedules permit.

GroupMe link: https://groupme.com/join_group/70867256/I450k9UH 

ListServ: Conservation-Soc@princeton.edu

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Citations:

United Nations. (n.d.). Forests, desertification and Biodiversity – United Nations Sustainable Development. United Nations. https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/biodiversity/ 

Deforestation and forest degradation | threats | WWF. (n.d.-b). https://www.worldwildlife.org/threats/deforestation-and-forest-degradation 

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!

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