The State of the Office of Sustainability 

Two years ago, the director of Evergreen’s Office of Sustainability (OOS) left, and last year, the college confirmed the position will not be refilled. The OOS has been dissolved until further notice. 

This office managed critical responsibilities, including: 

• Evergreen’s Greenhouse Gas emissions reporting (for state compliance) 

• AASHE STARS sustainability metrics 

• Zero waste and carbon reduction goals 

• Development of the Climate Action Plan (CAP) in 2007

• Assisting with Sustainable Campus Infrastructure development (greenhouses, bike repair stands, waste audits/education, etc.) 

With the office closed, there is no active climate/sustainability action plan on campus. However, a portion of the former OOS Director’s FTE will be generously supporting the CCAS as it continues to provide some overlapping services such as facilitating Evergreen’s off-campus contacts and communications. It will not be involved with infrastructure planning or projects. 

Facilities/Operations has completed CCA building audits and a Decarbonization Plan for the Department of Commerce (supported by $600K in grants from the Department), entered into a Demand Response Agreement to reduce utility usage, and submitted EPA and Department of Ecology Greenhouse reports. It will also be monitoring updates to CETA and CBPS. 

Facilities believes that including a section on Sustainability/Climate Action should be considered in the approaching updates to the Campus Infrastructure Master Plan, to support the recent college strategic plan. The administration’s hope is to have student engagement with all aspects of the college regarding sustainability. 

For questions or concerns regarding the long-term continuation of the remaining OOS roles and the campus’ environmental stewardship goals, the best points of contact for campus operations/infrastructure sustainability would be the Facilities and Operations office and/or the President’s Office (President@evergreen.edu). 

The State of the Climate Center 

The Center for Climate Action and Sustainability (CCAS), housed in academics as a public service center, was asked by college leadership to focus primarily on off-campus partnerships and regional collaborations rather than internal operations. While CCAS will still offer classroom and student/faculty support, a majority of its projects and work will be in collaboration with off-campus state and non-profit entities, focusing on education development and ecological restoration work. This will also allow CCAS to expand its donor base and regional network.

In Spring, the CCAS Assistant Director submitted a grant proposal to fund MES Fellowship students revising and examining the outdated Climate Action Plan (CAP). The CCAS team explored options for an updated CAP, including renewable energy pathways, zero waste goals, and the potential for a Green Revolving Fund. However, both our internal assessment and administrative guidance make it clear that CCAS does not currently have the funding/staff capacity to take on the core duties of the former Sustainability Office.

Instead, as the OOS is not being reinstated, we are recommending that the college consider hiring an external consultant to lead the creation of a renewed climate or sustainability action plan, with CCAS available to support at a limited capacity. 

Shifting Priorities – Less On-Campus, More Regional Work 

Going forward, CCAS will emphasize: 

• Off-Campus Community & Regional Research Projects: Brand new partnerships on efforts like Capital Lake/Deschutes Estuary restoration, Chehalis Basin planning, Oly Ecosystems’ projects, Thurston County’s Climate Action Plan, and statewide energy infrastructure will be taking us off-campus and working with the high schools, county, and Cascadia bioregion at large. 

• Storytelling & Publicity: Amplifying Evergreen students’ and faculty’s sustainability projects and research, making the wider community aware of projects such as the MES thesis work, the new Mushroom Lab, and campus decarbonization efforts. 

• Education & Engagement: Continuing classroom visits; guest lectures; and creating useful resources, climate-focused curriculum, and professional development opportunities for students and faculty. 

• Graduate Fellowship Program: Continuing expansion from two to four fellows via matching endowment funding, supporting advanced research and project coordination for CCAS. 

• Internships: Transitioning from paid to for-credit internships for the time being, and expanding partner opportunities and coordination with the new Internship Office. 

Campus project consultation efforts will also be put on the back burner, as the Public CoLab initiative (a physical and virtual hub space providing resources and assistance to students and the public with sustainability projects) was unfortunately not approved by our administration at this time. A future version may be developed when CCAS is able to find time for alternative ways to provide those services. 

Sustainability Across Campuses

Clean Energy Committee Welcomes New Student Crew 

This fall, the Clean Energy Committee (CEC) is excited to welcome a new cohort of student leaders dedicated to advancing sustainability and climate action on campus. Faculty and CCAS Director Dr. Anthony Levenda will continue to provide guidance, alongside Enija Reed, a second-year MES student with CCAS. As a result of last spring’s student vote to expand the green fee, CEC has increased funding to support educational programming and implement active solutions to reduce carbon emissions and promote climate resilience across Evergreen’s campus. This expansion empowers students to take a more active role in shaping Evergreen’s energy future through hands-on projects, outreach, and innovation. 

Residential & Dining Sustainability 

RAD Sustainability is launching fall outreach with new flyers and a feedback/suggestion form to engage students in sustainable living. While garden plots on lower campus are paused for seasonal bed rebuilding, students can access community plots at the Organic Farm. New beds near the Rec Pavilion are underway for the Edible Campus program, with expansion plans in motion, and CCAS will be helping convert the historic Aquaponics Greenhouse to a student-accessible greenhouse over the Fall Quarter, in time for winter gardening. 

The Bike and the Bees 

Evergreen’s sustainability efforts continue to buzz with student-led initiatives. Last year, students working with the Olympia Beekeeper’s Association received a grant from the City of Olympia’s Inspire program to fund up to five nucleus bee hives and supplies in partnership with Evergreen’s Sustainability in Prisons Project. While administrative staff ultimately decided the Organic Farm was unprepared to host the hives, three were successfully donated to the Freedom Farm, where students with Individual Learning Contracts (ILCs) tended to them throughout the summer. There is now a call to form a student club to support a long-term beekeeping program on campus. Interested students and faculty should reach out to faculty advocates:

•  Melissa Nivala (nivalam@evergreen.edu), Ben Husndorfer (Ben.Hunsdorfer@evergreen.edu), or Sarah Williams (williasa@evergreen.edu).
• And/or contact Student Activities and WashPIRG to get involved on the student/club side (StudentActivities@evergreen.edu; kai.hawkins@publicinterestnetwork.org). 

Meanwhile, the Bikeshop Co-op is making strides toward a permanent campus home. Students collaborated with Facilities and received preliminary approval from the Space and Land Use Group (SLUG) to convert a staff/faculty lounge into a dedicated Bikeshop space, pending union agreement. To move forward, the Co-op will need to secure funding through proposals to the S&A Allocation Board and/or the Clean Energy Committee. For the space to be operational, Student Activities has requested an operations manual to address safety and staffing concerns—this was submitted at the start of summer and is currently under administrative review. 

Tacoma Campus Food Security

At Evergreen’s Tacoma Campus, students, staff, and faculty are working closely with local partners and community leaders to address food insecurity through sustainable, place-based solutions. These efforts include expanding access to existing community gardens and offering educational programming to empower residents with the skills to grow their own food. Additionally, the campus is continuing to develop its Hydroponics Lab as a hands-on learning and production space, supporting innovative approaches to urban agriculture and food justice.

Looking Ahead – Formation of the CSC 

While some of these transitions mean less direct support for on-campus sustainability projects, we’re working hard to build bridges between Evergreen and the broader community. A highlight will be Solarpunk Super Saturday this spring, a revival and reinvention of historic Evergreen traditions, blending campus and community in celebration of ecological imagination and action. 

If you’re a student, faculty, or staff member interested in shaping Evergreen’s sustainability future, we invite you to join the reinstated Campus Sustainability Council. This space will serve as a collaborative forum in which we can share ideas, coordinate efforts, and build momentum for climate action on campus. 

If you have questions, concerns, or stories of your own sustainability work to share, pleaseconnect with us at ClimateAction@evergreen.edu. 

We know some of these changes may be difficult to hear, and we share that sense of challenge. At the same time, we see this as a chance to grow Evergreen’s leadership in climate action through partnerships that connect the college to Cascadia and beyond.

 

 

In response to the evolving landscape of sustainability work at Evergreen, we’re excited to announce the formation of the Campus Sustainability Council—a new collective space for students, staff, and faculty to coordinate, communicate, and collaborate on sustainability efforts across campus.

This initiative has emerged in part due to the indefinite dissolution of the Office of Sustainability and the proposed redirection of the Center for Climate Action and Sustainability (CCAS) toward more externally focused, off-campus public service work. The Council is designed to fill the gap by fostering a decentralized, inclusive, and action-oriented community for campus sustainability.

What Is the Sustainability Council?

The Council is both a virtual asynchronous space and a quarterly in-person roundtable, open to all members of the Evergreen community and the public.

• A Microsoft Teams space will be established with dedicated channels for key topic areas such as:

  • Food & Agriculture
  • Transportation
  • Energy & Carbon
  • Zero-Waste
  • Biodiversity & Land Stewardship
  • Climate Justice & Education
  • Events & Outreach

  These channels will enable users to upload documents, share updates, ask questions, and coordinate projects in real-time or asynchronously. The goal is to connect earlier, collaborate more effectively, and advance sustainability goals further.

• A quarterly roundtable session will be held every Wednesday of Evaluation Week, providing a space to:

  • Reflect on the past quarter’s activities
  • Plan for the upcoming quarter
  • Identify areas for collaboration
  • Share resources and updates

  These sessions will be open to the public, and we encourage community members, local partners, and alumni to join the conversation.

Who Can Participate?

Everyone. The Council is not run by any single office or department—it is a shared space for all who care about sustainability at Evergreen. Whether you’re working on a class project, managing a campus initiative, or just curious about how to get involved, you’re welcome.

What’s Next?

More information will be released as final details are completed, including how to join the Teams space and participate in the first roundtable. In the meantime, questions, ideas, and expressions of interest can be directed to:

📧 ClimateAction@evergreen.edu

Let’s build a more connected, resilient, and sustainable Evergreen—together.

 

Thanks to everyone who joined us at Green Drinks this month! Here’s a round-up of the amazing community projects, events, and opportunities that were shared. Dive in and get involved! 👇

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🌱 Community Events & Projects

• Permaculture Rising – Melissa shared a bounty of happenings—nursery sales, food preservation workshops, and deep dives into food forests and permaculture!
  • 🔗 https://www.permaculturerising.com/workshops
• Surfrider Foundation – Lynn announced a Cigarette Butt Pickup happening Monday the 15th, starting at City Hall. They’re also celebrating a great cleanup collaboration with Thurston Econet!
  • 📍Instagram Post
• Capital Land Trust – Will shared an upcoming event, an Afternoon of Reflection at Inspiring Kids Preserve, on Tuesday, Sept 23 from 4:30–6:30 PM . They’re also teaming up with the Puget Sound Estuarium in November (on the 8th, 9th & 11th) for a Salmon Experience at Bayshore Preserve.
  • 🔗 https://capitollandtrust.org/salmon
• Puget Sound Estuarium – Clarissa shared lots of exciting events. Everything from Underwater Drone adventures (Pier Peer) at Boston Harbor Marina, to their upcoming Speaker Series. And a fun fundraiser with bands and a drag show 🎶👑
  • 🔗 See Events Calendar
• Fix-It Fair – Nov 5 – Rob, from Thurston Solid Waste, announced the 3rd annual Fix-It Fair at Lacey Makerspace! Bring broken items, sign up to volunteer, or just come check it out. 🔧 Past fixes even included a 3D printed toaster knob replacement!
  • 🔗 Info Page + Fix-It Fair volunteer + signup form
• TCAT Celebration – Sept 20 Mason, from Olympia Community Solar, shared that the Thurston Climate Action Team (TCAT) is hosting a celebration/fundraiser on Saturday the 20th.
  • 🎉 United for Climate – Details
• Thurston Econet Mixer & Speaker Series – Phoebe shared that Econet’s monthly gathering will be  supplemented by a Thursday after-hours social at Vic’s Pizzeria this month, giving eco-educators another opportunity to get together! They’re also launching a speaker series — reach out if you have topics or presenters in mind! Be sure to join their email listserv to share your events!
  • 🔗 https://thurstoneconetwork.org/

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🙌 Programs & Volunteer Opportunities

• 🗑 Master Recycler & Composter Program – Rob also mentioned this multi-month training, which is affordable and open to the public!
  
  • Register here!
• 🐾 Mason County Search & Rescue – They’re recruiting volunteers—especially those interested in K9 training, rope skills, wilderness work, or flying drones!
  • 🧭 Volunteer sign-up and Info Link
• 🪵 Tumwater Urban Wood Reuse – Brian (through Michael) shared that the City of Tumwater is exploring a wood reuse program to repurpose trees into woodshop and community materials instead of landfilling them.
  • 🌳 Email Brian Caughlan bcaughlan@ci.tumwater.wa.us

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💡 Local Engagement & Political Reminders

• 📣 Environmental Action & Elections – Ronda suggested the Enviro-Talk ListServ for those interested in local environmental conversations and knowledge sharing (especially among retirees with expertise!).
  🗳 She also reminded us to review local candidates and keep up the pushback on the Olympia Airport Expansion.
  • 🔗 Read more at the Action Network
• 🌟 Evergreen Orientation Mixer – Oct 22 – Looking to connect with students? Evergreen is hosting a mixer with nonprofits and organizations on Oct 22 from 7–9 PM, with refreshments.
  • 📬 Email ClimateAction@evergreen.edu for details.
• 🌞 Solarpunk Saturday Returns (Spring 2026!) – Evergreen’s beloved “Super Saturday” will return with a new twist—Solarpunk Saturday: a day of workshops, music, storytelling, and maybe even a play about the future.
  • Visit our events page website to get details as they are released!

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📬 Want your org or event featured next month? Let us know at next month’s gathering!
💬 And don’t forget to follow and support these amazing local efforts!

#OlympiaGreenDrinks #CommunityPower #SustainabilityEvents #ThurstonCounty #SolarpunkSaturday

This week marked the beginning of a seven-year ecological journey at Evergreen State College’s Geoduck Beach, where the CCAS team (myself, Ian, and Emma) embarked on the first round of data collection following the removal of a concrete armored bulkhead. The goal: to understand how the shoreline evolves and recovers over time. 

We met at the gate around 11 AM, grateful for a break in the heat wave. The weather was unusually cooperative: cool, overcast, and only flirting with drizzle. As we unloaded gear and stretched out the morning stiffness, Ian had already flagged the sampling zones and packed the supplies in their trunk. After a brief pause for birdwatching (a necessary ritual), we got to work. 

🪤 Pitfall Traps: The Bug Hunt Begins 

Our first task was installing pitfall traps. Simple plastic cups dug into the wrackline to catch crawling insects. Ian explained the importance of placing the cups flush with the soil to avoid disturbing the terrain and to ensure bugs would naturally fall in. We added water and a few drops of soap to break surface tension, a trick that helps trap insects effectively. 

Emma and Ian had immediate success—within minutes, their traps had caught a few bugs (mine, I noted, remained stubbornly empty till the very end). Still, it was exciting to see the method in action and understand how even small changes in placement or terrain can affect results. 

🧱 Wrackline as a Living Border 

As we moved between flagged zones, Ian shared an observation that stuck with me: the wrackline is more than just a line of debris. It’s a living intersection where the contents of the sea meet the land. It’s a place of exchange, accumulation, and transformation. That insight gave our work a deeper sense of purpose. 

🧪Sediment Samples & Fallout Traps 

Next, we collected sediment samples using core tubes, digging into the wrackline and placing the samples into labeled tubs. It was more physically demanding than expected—digging, bending, and hauling—but many hands made the work light. 

We also set up fallout traps on the bluff, placing bins to catch airborne debris over 24 hours. Emma reminded us to label everything clearly with laminated cards to prevent curious passersby from disturbing the setup. Poison ivy was a concern, so gloves and long sleeves were a must. 

🌲 Log Analysis & Wrackline Survey 

We wrapped up with log analysis, measuring woody debris and noting characteristics like moss, barnacles, and dimensions. The wrackline survey followed, using the Survey123 app to document debris types and density. 

Throughout the day, we discovered small ways to improve future sessions (bringing a pop-up table, a large tote box for supplies, and even a speaker for morale and fun). We talked about comfort items like snacks, hand sanitizer, and kneepads, and how these small additions could make a big difference.

🌞 Looking Ahead: A Solarpunk Tradition? 

As we packed up, I found myself imagining what this could become. A summer tradition rooted in Solarpunk values—blending community science, ecological restoration, and joyful collaboration. Emma and I brainstormed ways to involve younger students, especially K–5, in meaningful and age-appropriate ways. We envisioned future sessions with volunteers from the Puget Sound Estuarium, South Sound’s GREEN Tean, TRIO Upward Bound College-ready program, or even just curious locals, followed by shared food and connection. 

This first day was more than just data collection. It was a beginning. A moment of learning, reflection, and dreaming. 

As industrial development proliferated throughout the Pacific Northwest in the 1800’s, the construction of concrete stabilizing walls along beaches became a standard practice in perceived damage prevention in the face of seemingly “harmful” erosion. Though they go unnoticed by many, their implementation has caused significant degradation of coastal habitat. Today, bulkheads cover almost 30% of the Puget Sound’s shoreline. (Dunagan) In recent years, region-wide efforts have been made to remove these structures, as their negative ecological impacts have become more widely recognized. This year, Evergreen is joining these efforts as part of a larger cultural shift towards valuing healthy environments over invasive infrastructure projects founded for exploitative economic gain. It is important to reflect on the wise words of Billy Frank Jr.,  

 “Without salmon we will not have people; without a healthy Puget Sound we will not have healthy communities; without a vibrant natural resource base we will not have a vibrant economic base. We need to understand these connections and think about the legacy we will be leaving to future generations.” (Welsh) 

In Fall of 2024, a group of graduate students in the Master of Environmental Studies (MES) program began working with Evergreen’s Center for Climate Action and Sustainability (CCAS) as a part of the Sustainability Research Fellowship Program with the goal of bulkhead removal at Bushoowah-ahlee Point (aka Synder Cove Point). In the spirit of encouraging ecological stewardship and understanding, students have the opportunity to take part in restoration efforts and study the effects of this infrastructural change. Collaborating with CCAS Director Dr. Anthony Levenda and Assistant Director Michael Joseph, the MES Graduate Fellows have formed a team to follow the project on campus. 

Student efforts began with an outline of a long-term monitoring plan to note changes in the health and stability of nearshore habitat. Students are partnering with faculty and local organizations, such as SPSSEG (South Puget Sound Salmon Enhancement Group) and the Stream Team. During Fall of 2025, the Bulkhead at Bushoowah-ahlee Point will be removed by SPSSEG. This undertaking aims to restore 500 ft. of shoreline by extracting 220 ft. of concrete armoring. The current bulkhead will be replaced with a ‘soft armor’ of logs and stabilizing vegetation to create a living shoreline-the effects of which will trickle upstream, reaching the inlet of Snyder Creek to improve riparian habitat. This style of construction had been employed by Salish peoples along the coast for thousands of years, in an integrated manner of working with cycles of erosion, rather than against it.  

Listening Before Acting: A Cultural Assessment 

Before any of this work could begin, surveys of the areas were completed, including one that exceeded previous standard practices. This survey went beyond measuring the beach’s fish and soil and instead studied its past. Maurice “Mo” Majors, the Washington State Anthropologist, visited the site to assess its cultural and archaeological significance. His work carefully evaluated whether the shoreline held buried sites or other cultural remnants through core sampling for pollen and other indicators of traditional food forests. 

Mo’s visit reflects a commitment to “listening to the landscape;” the effort to understand a place through its human and ecological stories before deciding its future. Engaging in a cultural review before breaking ground is an important act of respect. At a Green Drinks event at Millersylvania Lakeside Taphouse, Majors described this kind of work as both scientific and spiritual, seeing beyond the surface to what the land remembers. 

What does removing the bulkhead actually do?   

Bulkheads act as ‘sediment dams’ that prevent inputs of sediment from the land, thereby increasing erosion rates. Coastlines of the Puget Sound that are free from concrete intervention exist in states of dynamic equilibrium; between sediment being deposited from upland areas and moved by water-to the benefit of the entire ecosystem. Bulkheads can also cause beach narrowing, a change in sediment assemblage which disrupts the operations of vital flora and fauna. The removal of the bulkhead will support habitats of micro-invertebrates, insects, shellfish, and the forage fish which salmon rely on for food. Bulkhead removal increases local ecological resilience, reduces erosion, and supports biodiversity. The years 2010-2020 mark the first decade in recent Sound history wherein mileage of bulkheads removed was greater than that of bulkheads constructed (Dunagan). On a broader scale, engaging in such developmental shifts reflects a reorientation in our relationship to local ecology-away from harmful mediation and towards comprehensive conservation. 

How to Get Involved 

Students, staff, faculty, and community members are welcome to take part in this work. Whether you’re studying ecology, policy, art (or are just curious) there are opportunities to join monitoring events, share stories, or help educate others. If you own shoreline property and are considering your own restoration, visit shorefriendly.org for helpful resources. To learn more about Evergreen’s shoreline project, or get involved, contact the Center for Climate Action and Sustainability (www.evergreen.edu/climate, or ClimateAction@evergreen.edu). Additionally, the South Puget Sound Salmon Enhancement Group provides an informative and engaging “Story Map,” detailing site-specific restorative approaches and species reports: The Evergreen State College Bulkhead Removal.

Together, we can rebuild not just shorelines, but a culture of care. 

Students and community members who are interested in learning more about the long-term monitoring, and the eventual Bulkhead Removal are welcome to contact the Center for Climate Action and Sustainability, through this email: climateaction@evergreen.edu   

Special thanks to Ian Mann, Aeowyn Isobel, and the wonderful staff and students at the Center for Climate Action and Sustainability. Special thanks to Maurice “Mo” Majors, Cole Baldino and the whole South Puget Sound Salmon Enhancement Group, and Grant Gilmore of the Stream Team.

Bibliography 

Dunagan, C. (2021, October 28) Puget Sound meets 2020 bulkhead-removal goal; new indicators will chart the future. Puget Sound Institute. https://www.pugetsoundinstitute.org/puget-sound-meets-2020-bulkhead-removal-goal-new-indicators-will-chart-the-future/  

Welsh, L. (2022, October 24) A “Warrior of Justice” on the Long Road to Recognition. NWF Blog. https://blog.nwf.org/2021/06/a-warrior-of-justice-on-the-long-road-to-recognition/ 

Welcome – from the Center! 

This spring and summer, the Climate Center was buzzing with activity! From hosting events, collaborating with partners, to sparking conversations about climate action, justice, and creativity. From games and roundtables to symposiums and community gatherings, our focus has been on connection: connecting people to ideas, to one another, and to practical ways we can work toward a more sustainable future. 

🌱 Event Highlights 🌱

Climate Games Day – April 9 

In partnership with Evergreen’s International Study Abroad program, we hosted a lighthearted afternoon of snacks, games, and big ideas. Participants tackled resource-trading games and strategic challenges that sparked creative solutions to climate adversity. 

Earth Week – April 22–24 

Three days of celebrations, learning, and action: 

• Earth (Field) Day – April 22 An outdoor celebration of our local environment, student projects, and ways to engage in campus sustainability. 

• Rachel Carson Forum – April 24 Hosted by MESA, this year’s Forum honored the 40th anniversary of the Master of Environmental Studies (MES) program. Guest speakers Dr. Rob Knapp, Dr. Francisco Santiago-Avila, and Dr. Adam Romero explored themes of sustainable design, transforming our relationship to wildlife, and reimagining U.S. agriculture. 

• Farmworkers Social Justice Day – April 23 Honoring José Gómez, we highlighted the fight for farmworker justice, food sovereignty, and solidarity with those who grow our food. 

Equity Symposium – Climate Lecture Series Special 

Faculty member Sam Saltiel led an interactive workshop exploring Solarpunk and tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) as tools for creativity, climate action, and personal empowerment. Participants reflected on their strengths and imagined practical steps toward a greener future. 

Sustainability Roundtable – May 12 

A collaborative design charrette on reimagining Evergreen’s communal bike shop. Together, we discussed why this space is vital for sustainability, accessibility, and student health—and what’s needed to bring “Bike Shop 2.0” to life. 

Climate & Sustainability Symposium – May 17 

Co-hosted with Thurston Climate Action Team (TCAT), this convention brought together climate and sustainability representatives from across Thurston County. The day was filled with workshops, networking, and collaborative visioning for regional action. 

Climate Lecture Series: Empowering the Energy Workforce 

Nikki Luke explored how energy governance impacts workers and communities, with a focus on justice in the U.S. South. She highlighted how race, gender, class, and ability intersect with energy policy—and where opportunities for change lie. 

🌞 Summer Highlights 🌞

Critical Edge Alliance Conference 

This June, Evergreen hosted the international Critical Edge Alliance conference, bringing together educators and innovators from around the globe. CCAS presented on what teams and institutions can do in the face of climate change and federal opposition—sharing practical strategies for resilience, collaboration, and action. 

Building Networks & Partnerships 

• Thurston Eco Net + Cascadia NOW! – We connected our local community of environmental educators and outreach staff with our Cascadia NOW! partners, establishing a fiscal sponsorship to support ongoing collaboration. 

• Olympia Green Drinks – We continued co-hosting monthly gatherings for people in green careers and interests to meet, share resources, and strengthen our local sustainability community. 

• WOHESC Statewide Calls – We kept convening sustainability leads from Washington colleges and universities to exchange tips, share projects, and learn from one another’s successes. 

Grants & Student Fellowships 

We secured a $20,000 grant to fund MES Fellowship students working on Evergreen’s new Sustainability Action Plan 2.0 and ecological restoration projects across campus. 

Summer Institute: Teaching Social Action 

In partnership with the Washington Learning and Teaching Center, we hosted a two-day Summer Institute focused on Teaching Social Action—exploring pedagogy. And the theme of Solarpunk with sustainable planning for classroom praxis. Faculty and staff engaged in hands-on design sessions and shared approaches to building climate literacy and agency in their students. 

Looking Ahead 

We’ll wrap up the summer at the Burien Solarpunk Festival, connecting with Indigenous Futurists partners and other visionaries shaping regenerative futures. 

This summer, our work has been about momentum—releasing a wave of new projects, resources, and case studies for classes, community partners, and anyone ready to act for a sustainable future. 

📚 Projects & Partnerships 

• MES Fellows & Faculty Collaborations – Our fellows continued work on climate planning, ecological restoration, and community engagement projects. 

• Community Engagement – We tabled at the Tumwater Elevate Fair, showcasing climate-and-art intersections and our new trivia game Fact or (Science) Fiction, highlighting BIPOC and femmes in STEM. 

🎥 In Case You Missed It 

• Videos, blog posts, and zines from our events will be shared on our website and social media this fall—stay tuned! 

📅 Upcoming 

Mark your calendars for fall events, including the continuation of our Climate Lecture Series and sustainability skill-building workshops. 

Get Involved

Volunteer, partner with us, or join an event. Follow us to stay updated: 

• Instagram: @EvergreenCCAS 

• Facebook: EvergreenCCAS 

• Subscribe: Join our mailing list

 

 

Guest Speaker:

Phoebe, a dedicated volunteer with the Thurston ECO Network (TEN), joined us to share exciting updates about the network’s growth and evolving vision. TEN is a collaborative hub connecting environmental educators, advocates, and organizations across Thurston County. Phoebe highlighted their new social media presence, an upcoming podcast, and a new proposal to join the CascadiaNow!’s fiscal sponsorship program—opening doors to grant funding, nonprofit resources, and expanded programming.

This partnership would allow TEN to scale up educator meet-ups, professional development workshops, and community outreach without the overhead of forming a standalone nonprofit. Phoebe emphasized TEN’s commitment to transparency and collaboration, inviting more helping hands to join the effort. A link to the full TEN Growth Proposal slides will be shared for those interested in learning more or getting involved.

🗣️ Community Announcements

The second half of our August Green Drinks was full of exciting updates and opportunities from our vibrant sustainability community. Here’s a quick rundown of what was shared:

🚲 Ongoing Programs & Opportunities

• Bike Donation Program is still active—keep spreading the word and donating if you can! More info.
• Seed Libraries are growing! Lacey Library now hosts one, supporting local food resilience.
• Upcycling Workshop. Speaking of Lacey Library, they’ve had a Upcycling Workshop. Reach out to see if they’ll be rehosting again soon!

♻️ Upcoming Events

• “Can I Recycle This?” Workshop
  📍 Lacey | 🗓️ Wednesday, August 27 | ⏰ 6–7 PM
  Hosted by Thurston Waste Center—great for brushing up on recycling knowledge.

• Master Recycler Volunteer Training
  🗓️ Coming in September—see here for details!

• Solarpunk Festival – Burien, WA
  🗓️ August 16
  A celebration of imaginative futures and sustainability through art and community.

• Spirit Festival – Tacoma
  Hosted by the Washington Historical Society—exploring cultural heritage and community spirit.

• Stonewall Youth Field Trip to Nisqually Wildlife Refuge
  🗓️ August 14 | ⏰ 2–6 PM
  Ages 12–21, transportation provided. A great opportunity to connect youth with nature.

🌊 Nature & Culture Highlights

• Otters at Saint Martin’s – Bruce shared a tip to check out potential otter sightings!
• Ashland’s “As You Like It” at Oregon Shakespeare Festival – A solarpunk-inspired adaptation offering a fresh take on society and sustainability through the arts. If you have the luxury of being able to see it before November, highly recommended (Michael’s review here)!

🌐 Community Coordination

• Thurston ECO Network Gathering
  🗓️ Next Wednesday—join our guest speaker to connect with local sustainability leaders.

• Event Calendar Access
  A new calendar is in the works to consolidate all these events. For now, email climateaction@evergreen.edu to get access.

Date: Tuesday, July 29, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: The Evergreen State College
Sign-Up Deadline: Wednesday, July 24

This summer, we’re inviting students, staff, faculty, and community members to come together for a full-day Summer Institute hosted by the Climate Center. Through the lens of Solarpunk—a movement that blends hopeful climate futures with creativity, justice, and systems thinking—we’ll explore how imagination and action can work hand in hand to build a better world now.

Expect a day of collaborative workshops, storytelling, hands-on tools, and space to connect with others who care deeply about climate justice and community resilience.

🔗 Sign up here to reserve your spot.
📬 A detailed agenda will be emailed to participants on Friday.
📖 In the meantime, check out this overview post for a sneak peek at what’s in store.

July 29, in SEM II B2105
9:00 AM ‑ 10:00 AM	Welcome, Introductions, & Housekeeping. Coffee and chatting (9-9:15) Welcome New Guests, Free-write (5 min.) Refresher/Recap of Day 1 (Faculty & Staff: Solarpunk and Teaching Social Action)
10:00 AM – 10:50 AM	Workshop Session 1: Intention Teaching Social Action (with Anthony) Solarpunk Solutions (with Michael)
10:50 AM – 11:00 AM	Break (stretch, rest, chat)
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM	Workshop Session 2: Impact Teaching Social Action (with Anthony) Solarpunk Solutions (with Michael)
12:00 PM ‑ 1:00 PM	Lunch Break (Bring a Lunch/Potluck!) Food options in the  Summer on campus are limited. So please be sure to bring food (or plan to potluck or grab food off campus)!
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM	Workshop Session 3: Integration! Teaching Social Action (with Anthony) Solarpunk Solutions (with Michael)
3:00 PM – 3:45 PM	Wrap-up: “Regroup & Recap” Groups A and B present their discussions and mindmaps to the other group Time for individuals to share-back any lingering thoughts or ideas. Decide on 1 action to take going forward.
3:45 PM – 4:00 PM	Feedback Form Time Specific time to quickly fill out the Washington Center’s Feedback Form

Questions? Reach out to us at ClimateAction@evergreen.edu. We can’t wait to see you there.

🌿 Olympia Green Drinks – July Recap & Community Announcements 🌿 
Thanks to everyone who joined us for July’s Green Drinks meetup at Whitewood Cider’s Tiny Taproom! We had a fantastic time connecting and hearing from our featured guest, Sarah Hammon with Oly Ecosystems. A full recap of her presentation will be posted on the Climate Center’s blog soon—stay tuned! 

📣 Community Announcements & Events: 

• 📍 August Location: 
  Next month’s Green Drinks will be at Millersylvania State Park’s Lakeside Taphouse—stay tuned for details! 

• Oly Ecosystems is hosting a July 19 work party at Cooper Crest, with lupine plant sampling included. Link forthcoming. Find info here: Work Party at Cooper Crest Preserve – OlyEcosystems 

💚 Local Engagement Opportunities 

• 🛢 July 9 and 16th Anti‑Chevron Protest 
  Join Palestine Action South Sound in a banner and picket outside Tumwater’s Chevron station on Wednesday, July 9 from 5–6:30 PM. Organized in solidarity with global anti‑Chevron actions. bdsmovement.net+6instagram.com+6theolympian.com+6. 

• 🛫 Olympia Airport Expansion Petition 
  Concerned about the proposed expansion of Olympia Regional Airport? Sign the petition on Action Network to oppose growth that could harm our community and environment saveourskiesalliance.org+2actionnetwork.org+2thejoltnews.com+2. 

• 🌊 Estuarium Pier Peer Programs 
  Explore marine life with the Puget Sound Estuarium’s Pier Peer—use underwater drones/ROVs to observe kelp crabs and estuary creatures. Family-friendly, all ages. Details and registration here: Pier Peer – Puget Sound Estuarium 

 Local Resources 

• 🔆 Olympia Community Solar Grant (Solarize Thurston) 
  Olympia Community Solar is offering group solar purchasing discounts, including free assessments before the campaign closes July 4. Learn more at Solarize Thurston actionnetwork.org+11olysol.org+11solarwa.org+11. 

• 🐝 Evergreen College Beekeeping Pilot 
  A summer and autumn pilot at The Evergreen State College is re‑establishing student‑managed nucleus hives (around 3–5 colonies). Thanks to the Olympia Beekeepers Association, Evergreen’s Sustainability in Prisons Project, and Woodsbee Co. 

• 🚲 Adult Bike Rescue Program 
  Thurston County Solid Waste, Intercity Transit, and partners are now collecting gently‑used adult bikes for refurbishment—drop off at the Waste & Recovery Center starting July 2 facebook.com+3intercitytransit.com+3facebook.com+3. 

• ⚡ EV Charging Grant Opportunity 
  Thanks to a recent legal settlement, funding is now available for electric vehicle charging stations in Thurston County—details coming soon once links are live. 

This spring, students, faculty, and staff from The Evergreen State College traveled to — the Washington Oregon Higher Education Sustainability Conference — held this year in Portland, OR at the Portland Community College Sylvania Campus.

Themed around “Cultivating Sustainable Communities,” the 2025 gathering brought together changemakers from across the Cascadia bioregion to envision more just, resilient, and regenerative futures.

Representing Evergreen were delegates from across campus:
– The Center for Climate Action and Sustainability (CCAS)
– The Clean Energy Committee, funded by the student green fee
– The Changemakers Lab academic program
– Several Master of Environmental Studies (MES) Sustainability Fellows

This marked a milestone year for Evergreen’s involvement. For the first time, an Evergreen staff member led a workshop at WOHESC. Michael Joseph, Assistant Director of CCAS and MPA candidate, presented an interactive session titled “Solarpunk and You: How We Can Change the World,” developed with CCAS student staff, with facilitation assistance from Aeowyn Isobel, the Center’s chief editor.

The workshop introduced attendees to the Solarpunk movement—a growing genre and framework for envisioning sustainable, just, and hopeful futures—through the lens of Tabletop Role-Playing Games (TTRPGs) as educational curriculum and scenario training simulators. Participants engaged in guided imagination and reflection activities designed to build creative agency and climate resilience, drawing connections between personal strengths and systemic change.

“Rejecting dystopia isn’t just about hope—it’s about building capacity for collaborative futures,”* said Michael Joseph. “Solarpunk invites us to imagine forward together, and that’s what this session aimed to model.”

In another first, Evergreen also supported a student participant in WOHESC’s Sustainability Design Challenge, a hands-on experience rooted in Design Thinking. The student explored how this methodology could be adapted and brought back to campus—particularly to enrich academic learning and campus projects through innovation and user-centered systems thinking.

Throughout the conference, Evergreen participants engaged in interactive panels, connected with regional peers, and brought home new insights and strategies for strengthening our campus-wide sustainability efforts. The experience emphasized not only Evergreen’s commitment to environmental leadership, but also our dedication to building inclusive, imaginative communities ready to face the challenges of climate justice head-on.

To learn more about the conference and upcoming events, visit the WOHESC website.

   

Pictured Above: Students spelling WOHESC and taking a goofy picture before the van-ride home!