As a global push for sustainable actions becomes more urgent, students are taking initiative to spread information and further support the reform. Declaring environment-centric majors, becoming involved in clubs, attending campus sponsored events related to sustainability and filling student positions are all viable options for those attending Sonoma State University.
With so many possibilities and various roles being filled, it is important to have a central source overseeing actions related to sustainability—especially those affecting SSU lifestyle and policy. This is where the Sustainability Senator, a role within The Student Government of the Associated Students takes lead.
Katryna Johnson, a third year Geography, Environment, and Planning student on the Sustainability, Environment, and Development track currently holds this position. Her role is to advocate for the environment on behalf of the student body when voting on issues in student government. In order to develop a holistic view of sustainability on campus, Kat stays connected with Students United for Sustainability, the Center for Environmental Inquiry, Facilities Management, the Campus Garden and other students holding sustainability positions.
Being involved with various clubs and organizations allows Johnson to understand what is happening on campus and what needs to be improved. Within her next year as Sustainability Senator, Johnson wants to expand the campus compost program and install a pollinator habitat along the south side of Ives Hall. These goals will be achieved through collaboration between different groups and student organizations.
When Johnson is not working on campus, she is implementing sustainable actions in her own life, or encouraging others to make conscientious change. Following a lifelong passion for the natural environment, Johnson has developed a deep understanding of what sacrifices are necessary in order to become more sustainable. When asked what the hardest part of making these shifts is, Johnson answered, “being selfless. In order to make my lifestyle more sustainable, I had to give up some luxuries and conveniences for a payoff that I will probably never get to see.”
It is never too late to start making lifestyle changes for the environment. Johnson shared “the most recent changes I’ve made to my lifestyle are finally giving up eating fish and not using a clothes dryer anymore. I now hang dry all my clothes!”. By discussing sustainable habits, more people can become involved in creating a cultural shift towards lower impact lifestyles.
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View all Associated Students Student Government roles