Sustainability Q&A: Megan Kramer

What is your year and major?

I am a junior, studying civil engineering.

What does sustainability mean to you?

To me, sustainability is the use of resources without compromising the ability of the future to utilize the same resources.

How have you been involved in promoting sustainability on campus?

I have not been involved in promoting sustainability on campus.

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

To live sustainability, I could make changes in my life such as walking/biking more often vs driving my car, taking shorter showers, recycling whenever possible, and using less energy in general. In my Sustainable Systems and Design engineering course we calculated our estimated total carbon emissions, and the category of home energy emitted far more greenhouse gases than waste and household vehicles. Therefore, I know that to make the greatest impact I need to make changes in my routine at home.

How could Gonzaga continue to improve its sustainability efforts?

I think one major change Gonzaga could make to improve its sustainability efforts is to attempt to go as paper-free as possible. I recognize how much paper is being used in each of my classes, with endless handouts, suggested slides to print out for note taking, and redundant syllabi. It is expected that students have a portable computer anyways, so it makes sense to save paper by transitioning to technological resources. If professors are strongly encouraged to make these changes in their classrooms, then I think great strides to a more sustainable campus could be achieved.

How will you continue to promote sustainability after you leave Gonzaga?

After I leave Gonzaga, I will continue to promote sustainability through my career. I hope to use my civil engineering degree to promote environmental development and promote environmental efforts. I will also continue to do my best to do the little things, such as use reusable water bottles, grocery bags, and be paper-conscious.