Sustainability Q&A: Emmy Wagner

What is your position/department/year/major/club affiliation at Gonzaga?

I am the Gonzaga Environmental Organization (GEO) President, a Senior Business major with a Finance concentration and minor in the Hogan Entrepreneurial Leadership Program.

What does sustainability mean to you?

To me, sustainability means taking only what you need, being grateful you get to use what the Earth offers and ensuring everyone in the present and future will have access to the same resources you do.

How have you been involved in promoting sustainability on campus?

I have been a part of GEO for all my years at Gonzaga. I was a part of the Rethink Waste subcommittee and helped host waste audits and educational events. I have also helped plan and host the Sustainable Period Event to discuss period stigma and hand out reusable period products. As GEO president, I work inside and outside of the club to help educate students, staff, and faculty about sustainability.

What are some things you do in your personal life to live sustainably?

In my personal, daily life I compost and recycle and help anyone who comes over to my house know where their trash should go. I also try to thrift items whenever possible and think about how much I really need something before buying it.

How could Gonzaga continue to improve its sustainability efforts?

The main thing Gonzaga can do to continue to improve its sustainability efforts is work to divest from fossil fuels.

How will you continue to promote sustainability at Gonzaga?

I will continue to promote sustainability at Gonzaga by educating others whenever and wherever possible. I will also help lift up everyone’s voice at Gonzaga that is working towards a more sustainable and just future.

How do you see sustainability intersecting with social justice issues on an institutional, country, or global scale?

A huge part of sustainability is social justice. Many of the groups most impacted by climate change are from minority communities or groups with limited access to resources. Additionally, these people are often harming the environment the least, yet are forced to bear the brunt of the consequences. Sustainability cannot be achieved until everyone has access to the resources they deserve and need in order to live their best life.