Meet Jenna Schaefer, a sophomore completing a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Economics and Policy. Schaefer was hired by the Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment (iSEE) as the Illini Lights Out Intern, running the popular energy-saving events on Friday evenings — but her interests in other sustainability areas also have led her to become a member of the Zero Waste SWATeam.
Schaefer’s involvement with SWATeams began in her freshman year. As she learned more about iSEE and the Illinois Climate Action Plan (iCAP), she knew she wanted to participate. She began attending team meetings after reaching out to the Zero Waste SWATeam clerk.
In middle school, Schaefer learned about the amount of waste produced by the average American and was shocked. Since then, she’s been interested in environmentally mindful solutions we can implement to reduce this amount.
She is looking forward to working with others who have similar interests and passions in order to continue the University’s efforts to lessen its environmental footprint.
Schaefer hopes to “make a positive difference in the waste production on campus and encourage other students to be conscious of their waste as well.”
In her free time, she enjoys being outside — especially traveling, hiking, and spending time with friends and family.
Return to the Zero Waste SWATeam Page >>>
— Article by iSEE Communications Intern Kratika Tandon