Blog

Veterans in Sustainability: Our Global Superheroes

}

Nov 10, 2017

Today, we reflect on the courage, strength, and selflessness that comes with serving in the US Armed Forces. 

With more than 2 million US military personnel and 1.3 million actively serving, according to Business Insider, we’re humbled to share that The GREEN Program has traveled with a number of these altruistic individuals. With a wondrous cohort of more than 10 Alumni in our GREEN community alone who are involved in the Armed Services, this Veterans’ Day, we are reminded that these figures in sustainability are not only national champions, but global superheroes. 

Here’s how.


Education and Innovative Environments

Whether military men & women are choosing to integrate service time with their academics, or continuing their education as a non-traditional student upon completion of their contract, colleges and universities are making academic opportunities more readily available than ever. By way of GI Bill benefits, tuition assistance, loan repayment programs, work-study opportunities, and more, according to military.com Network, there are numerous routes that knowledge-hungry military personnel can integrate their passion for social impact & sustainability with exceptional Veteran Education Benefits around the country.

cj9ugpd1801y1spi50ce14lx9 rishi1

Meet Rishi


Rishi Patel, a current student at Texas A&M studying Nuclear Engineering is a member of the Air Force ROTC and has also served as a Deputy Command Officer.

Passionate about his engineering studies and his role within the Armed Forces, he says that, “I’m very interested in the field of renewable energy because I firmly believe it is the duty of the upcoming generation to remove our dependence on oil and natural gas which would harm the environment.… Climate change is definitely something we should strive to balance for the betterment of the world.” 

Rishi continued saying that, “[The GREEN Program was] also very beneficial for me as an officer in the United States Air Force as it put me in a new environment with new people working on innovative ideas.”

From Campus to Combat

Colleges and universities across the United States and beyond, are implementing sustainability initiatives and other on-campus opportunities via clubs, student organizations, national and international sustainability-supportive companies, and more. 

Implemented in 2015, “the White House launched the American Campuses Act on Climate (ACAC) initiative to amplify the voice of the higher-ed community in support of a strong international climate agreement in the United Nations COP21 climate negotiations in Paris.” 

According to this White House Press Release, more than 300 colleges and undersides across America, representing approximately 4 million students have joined this climate pledge and are continuing to demonstrate their commitment across the country despite current political circumstances.

Meet Alex


For Alex Mounivong, a current student at the University of Iowa (one of the 117 universities on this ACAC list), studying Environmental Sciences with a Sustainability Certificate, has not only been a member of the military for three years, but an active student on campus, too. 

“In my fraternity, I currently hold the position of Service Director as well as Sustainability Chair.  Every year, we take all of our members out to help clear invasive species along the waterfront that helps prevent future flooding. Being Sustainability Chair, I am able to work with other fraternities and sororities and incorporate sustainable practices all across campus,” says Alex, an upcoming TGP student. “I am also part of another student organization called Net Impact UIowa, where we have been pushing students and faculty to utilize sustainable practices in a business world.” 

From his experiences in the classroom, on-campus, and abroad, he aims to incorporate his newfound knowledge and passion for sustainability into his military role and civilian life. 
 

“Who knows how long I’ll serve in the military. But while I am wearing a uniform, I’ll have the opportunity to push sustainability efforts within the military,” he states.

“I’ve learned that many people are [still] unaware about the whole sustainability idea. The best way to spread the word is simply to teach your friends, family, and coworkers! What always sticks to someone’s mind is when a familiar face is the one pushing the efforts… I feel that my upcoming GREEN adventure will help me provide sustainable alternatives to both the military and civilian sides of my life.”

cj9ugy6xf01yyspi505od6klv alex1
cj9uh0ela0228s0i5to66oilu

Careers in Sustainability 

Similarly to how higher education is beginning to recognize the urgency of sustainability and social impact action, military members are choosing to bring this passion into their professional lives to continue making positive change. 

Take for instance, the USGBC Green Veterans Group is aimed at regenerating men and women who have served in the military for green jobs and green living, according to their website. “Green Veterans are dedicated to helping our Nation’s heroes learn about sustainable building and green living, while helping ease the hardship of military-to-civilian transition. By empowering Veterans to become volunteer leaders in their communities, we nurture opportunities for continuing education, networking, employment, corporate engagement and green entrepreneurship.”

Organizations and other professional businesses around the country are continually expanding their opportunities for skilled employees interested in sustainability-specific career paths, or helping them to acquire the training required to land their dream job.
 

Accomplishments, Direction, and Purpose

cj9uh8lhi0232s0i5q4jdsby2 image 1

Meet Lacie


Passionate about consumer education and sustainability practices, Lacie Bentley, a United States Navy Veteran, traveled with us to Fukushima, Japan to dive into the Disaster Mitigation & Nuclear to Renewable Transitions. As an Agriculture Education major at North Carolina A&T, Lacie says that her experience in the Navy has made her hyper-aware of the waste we create. 

“Sustainability education is essential for military personnel,” Lacie says. “We need consumer education. We need to be told how our purchasing power can be devastating to the environment; it is important to also teach in sustainability how to be responsible consumers.” 

While Lacie is still exploring her professional options, she says that her experience with GREEN has assisted her a new outlook on the world around her. 

“On the professional level, my sense of accomplishment lies in knowing that TGP helped me get a clearer picture of what career fields I’m actually interested in,” she says. 

“I think it’s beneficial for active duty and veterans to have [experiences like TGP] because both TGP and the military offer similar experiences. Hopefully, as it happened to me, veterans will realize what they want to study and do in life.” She’s hopeful that programs like The GREEN Program can offer more military members the personal, professional, and academic experience they yearn for. “Hopefully, something within themselves lights up with passion. There is so much to learn and to experience during these trips; it’s hard not to incorporate a learning experience into their professional goals.”
 

Leading by Example

Many military veterans continue their acts of humanitarianism after their time on duty. Whether it’s because of continued passion for doing good & giving back, or seeking familiar feelings of team work and camaraderie that the military offered, these national efforts are truly inspiring. 

Rubicon, an organization dedicated to  relief to those affected by natural disasters, is a supreme example of these sorts of opportunities. “Through continued service, Team Rubicon seeks to provide our veterans with three things they lose after leaving the military: a purpose, gained through disaster relief; community, built by serving with others; and identity, from recognizing the impact one individual can make.”

Other avenues of giving back are seen through a variety of other chapters including the United War Veterans CouncilSoldiers’ Angels, and more, giving veterans and other member of the Armed Forces endless opportunities to continue giving back.


Actions speak louder than words. 

When reflecting on how Rishi sees himself leaving an impact on during his time in service, it’s pretty simple:

“Lead by example. I cannot change anyone’s views, but I can sure lead by example and try to do the best that I can.”

cj9uhj1ix0210spi5zwa1tr5m 18301826 1539415126092678 5321492087444750732 n

We couldn’t agree more.

In order for us to achieve a healthier, more sustainable future, it will take the efforts of entire communities: locally and globally. We are proud to be a part of this collective action toward our future for sustainable development & climate solutions.

Thank you, Alex, Rishi, Lacie, and all other members of the US  Armed Forces – past, present, and future – for stepping outside of your comfort zones on a daily basis. We are continually inspired by your selfless military service and your dedication to social impact & sustainability. 

Here’s to you, and continued sustainability efforts together for a healthier future for us all. 




** Images courtesy of: Rishi P., Lacie B., & Alex M.
The views expressed in this blog are the views & opinions of interviewees and do not reflect the opinions of the US Armed Forces or the United States Department of Defense

Read Another Article

Honoring Kate Slattery & Highlighting the Shine On Scholarship for Women’s History Month

Honoring Kate Slattery & Highlighting the Shine On Scholarship for Women’s History Month

In honor of Women’s History Month, The GREEN Program is happy to highlight Kate Slattery – a mechanical engineer and photovoltaic designer for SolarCity who challenged herself and others to work toward a global mission of renewable energy and sustainability. We are honored to work with Kate’s family and GivePower to share Kate’s story and provide the Shine On Scholarship to TGP students in memory of Kate. 

read more
How an Online Sustainability Program Helped Jaedyn Medrano Become an Intersectional Sustainability Advocate

How an Online Sustainability Program Helped Jaedyn Medrano Become an Intersectional Sustainability Advocate

This blog features the virtual Nepal Ethics of Sustainable Development Alum, Jaedyn Medrano who says, “this program taught me how to think about a project holistically, and it has guided me along the path to being a better cultured and inclusive young professional.” She is set to graduate with a double major in Renewable Natural Resources & Ecological Restorations in December of 2022.

read more
Defending Reproductive Rights in the Battle for Climate Justice

Defending Reproductive Rights in the Battle for Climate Justice

Reproductive Justice is Climate Justice. The GREEN Program stands to defend the reproductive rights of all women and people who give birth to access safe reproductive health care. We must do more to educate others and understand the interconnection between Reproductive Justice and the Climate Crisis. It’s important to draw the connections between climate change, pollution, and reproductive rights.

read more
An International Graduate Student Embraces Nepali Culture by Studying Abroad through Shine On Scholarship

An International Graduate Student Embraces Nepali Culture by Studying Abroad through Shine On Scholarship

On one hand, I believe that every student should be given a chance to study abroad at least once in their life, because it teaches us things that textbooks cannot: adaptability, resilience, curiosity, empathy, just to name a few. Whether good or bad, bursting our bubble and learning about our world will inspire us and open our minds. On the other hand, the people we interact with benefit from the diversity, because all of us bring unique perspectives to the table. Perhaps we share an idea that no one has thought of but could be key to solving a problem; we fuel the aspirations of someone who is facing similar difficulties; or help take down stereotypes.  

read more
Remembering Juneteenth and the Fight for Environmental Justice

Remembering Juneteenth and the Fight for Environmental Justice

n June 19, 1865, Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, TX, and announced the end of the Civil War and the end of slavery. It is on this day every year since that we celebrate “Juneteenth” as the end of slavery in the United States. It is a day that we celebrate ancestors and leaders who fought to be liberated. We celebrate their power, resiliency, and tenacity. 

read more
LGBTQ+ Leaders and Organizations in Sustainability to Know About this Pride Month

LGBTQ+ Leaders and Organizations in Sustainability to Know About this Pride Month

The GREEN Program loves to celebrate love, and there is no better way to do that this month than by recognizing a few LGBTQ+ leaders and organizations that are making a difference not just in their own communities but for our planet altogether. Read below to learn more about some people and spaces that are working together to promote a better world that focuses on inclusion and equality.

read more
Meet 8 AAPI Leaders in Sustainability: Across the Globe and At Home

Meet 8 AAPI Leaders in Sustainability: Across the Globe and At Home

The month of May is known to many as the end of classes and the start of Summer, but May is also known as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Our team at TGP wanted to take a moment to recognize the contributions and influence of AAPI Americans throughout history, culture, and achievements both on a global scale, and from those who are a bit close to home. We also encourage you to learn more about AAPI Heritage Month and get involved through additional resources.

read more
From a Start Up to a Sustainability Study Abroad Program: How Patrick Applied his Passion for Renewable Energy in Iceland

From a Start Up to a Sustainability Study Abroad Program: How Patrick Applied his Passion for Renewable Energy in Iceland

When Fall 2021 rolled around and I saw the TGP scholarship opportunity, I thought I’d apply not expecting much. When I found out that I actually got it, I was like “I guess I’m actually doing this!”. I was a little nervous and anxious but also so excited for the opportunity! I was also grateful that the enrollment process was very smooth for me with no significant challenges along the way.

read more
Boston University Student Gains a Unique Perspective for Renewable Energy & Sustainability by Studying Abroad in Iceland

Boston University Student Gains a Unique Perspective for Renewable Energy & Sustainability by Studying Abroad in Iceland

Global experiences have definitely shaped me into the person I am today through increased cultural awareness and sensitivity. Getting to really know a great group of diverse individuals from all over the world has not only shaped my perspective on current world issues, but has also allowed me to take a glance at certain topics from another angle and point of view.

read more
A Construction Science Major Turns Lessons into Opportunity after a Sustainability Study Abroad Program 

A Construction Science Major Turns Lessons into Opportunity after a Sustainability Study Abroad Program 

AJ Ewing spent his past Winter Break a little bit differently than most students, by studying abroad on our GREEN Nepal program. As a Construction Science major, AJ notes that he was nervous coming into the study abroad program having no prior experience in sustainability or electrical/solar grids, but he was excited and eager to learn. As soon as he arrived, all his nerves were gone as he was welcomed by our team and ready to dive in. Now, he can honestly say that when he thinks of The GREEN Program, he thinks of “family away from home.”

read more
How a Geologist Made His Sustainability Dream in Iceland a Reality through a Study Abroad Scholarship

How a Geologist Made His Sustainability Dream in Iceland a Reality through a Study Abroad Scholarship

As someone who is in a field with a limited representation of ethnic minorities, TGP created a neutral ground where there was a range of diversity on different levels. My GREEN Program experience in Iceland wasn’t just about the adventures and cultural immersion, but about the education too. I thoroughly enjoyed the lectures because I saw how passionate the different lecturers were about their work and research which is truly inspiring. As a geologist, learning more about the wonder that is Iceland in Iceland was definitely a dream come true.

read more
Get to Know GREENie: Maryam Aida Tidjani

Get to Know GREENie: Maryam Aida Tidjani

Maryam Aida Tidjani got to experience a brand new kind of GREEN Program during the hard times the world was facing, a 100% Virtual and Online experience. Initially planning on traveling to Peru in 2021, the global pandemic continued to shift things around and we had to pivot all travel programs to Online experiences.

read more

Subscribe to The GREEN Program newsletter & updates

Loading...
Skip to content