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A photo of Gaby Benitez standing outside. A graphic on it reads, "Gaby Benitez: Net-Zero Hero".

I’m helping to make Austin Net-Zero by advocating for equitable access to and connection with nature. 

In celebration of National Poetry Month, we’re excited to introduce our newest Net-Zero Hero, Gaby Benitez! Gaby is a poet, nature advocate, and born-and-bred Austinite. Nature is at the center of so much of what Gaby does. She worked for years on the education team at…

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A photo of Stephanie Webb walking on Montopolis Bridge with her bicycle. A graphic on it reads, "Stephanie Webb: Net-Zero Hero".

I’m helping to make Austin Net-Zero by discussing how climate discrimination keeps most BIPOCQ* in areas of urban sprawl and how safe, sustainable transportation is accessible to few.

Meet Stephanie Webb, an activist, analyst, athlete, and our newest Net-Zero Hero! As the founder of Decipher City, Stephanie has spent…

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 A photo of Olaniyi Akindiya standing in their studio smiling. Behind him is an artwork in progress using recycled cardboard boxes. A graphic on it reads, "Olaniyi Akindiya: Net-Zero Hero".

I’m helping to make Austin Net-Zero by incorporating vintage and repurposed materials in my works of art.

Meet Olaniyi Rasheed Akindiya, the artist and changemaker known as Akirash and our newest Net-Zero Hero! Originally from Lagos, Nigeri…

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A photo of Rohan Lilauwala at Mendez Neighborhood Park.

Please join us in welcoming the newest team member: Rohan Lilauwala! Rohan is stepping into the role of Environmental Program Coordinator. He'll be focusing on supporting climate resilience and advancing Austin's Climate Equity Plan. As Rohan settles into his new role, we asked him some gett…

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A photo of Diane Grodek standing outside smiling. Behind her, students at Lively Middle School are enjoying their lunch break. A graphic on it reads, "Diane Grodek: Net-Zero Hero".

I’m helping to make Austin net-zero by ensuring AISD Food Service considers sustainability in every decision we make — from cafeterias to procurement, recipes to menus, and catering to concessions.

Meet Diane Grodek, our newest Net-Zero Hero! As Executive Chef with the…

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A banner image of the Austin skyline with the COP26 logo and text that reads, "UN Climate Change Conference UK 2021: Austinites Reflect."

 

Through November 12, leaders from around the world are gathered in Glasgow, Scotland, for the UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties, known as COP26. Throughout these weeks, the global community turns its eyes towards the commitments coming out of Glasgow as countries work together to accelerate climate action.

COP26 created goals focused on four…

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A photo of Sheridan Ray standing under a tree. A graphic on it reads, "Sheridan Ray: Net-Zero Hero".

I’m helping to make Austin Net-Zero by contributing to my community and raising people's voices to make an impact.

Meet Sheridan Ray, our newest Net-Zero Hero! At only 19, Sheridan is becoming a fixture in sustainability circles across Austin. Inspired by a high school practicum course with Austin’s Park Rangers, Sheridan has sought out opportunities to raise her voice — and those from her com…

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Solving climate change requires both individual and collective action. In creating the Austin Climate Equity Plan, we were reminded of the barriers to action many community members face and the critical role institutions can play in leading by example. Businesses and organizations across our region can have a big impact when it comes to addressing the climate crisis.

With this in mind, we are pleased to introduce the Austin Climate Leaders. These organizations, including small and large businesses and local nonprofits, have all pledged their support for the vision and goals of the Austin Climat…

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Illustration showing people dancing with their hands in the air. Fruits and vegetables icons are around them.

For Austin to be a thriving, equitable, and ecologically resilient community, we must have a system for growing, selling, and consuming food that works for everyone. To work toward this vision, the Office of Sustainability launched a new Food Justice Mini Grant program. The program sought to provide flexible funding of up to $3,000 to organizations supporting those in our community most negatively impacted by food-related injustice…

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Photograph of Aimee Aubin standing next to trees and red flowers.

We’re pleased to introduce you to Aimee Aubin, our office's new Senior Public Information Specialist. Aimee will be working on design and community storytelling.

We asked Aimee a few get-to-know-you questions so you can learn more about her and her background.

 

Q: Where are you from, and what do you like best about your hometown?

A: I’m from Bay Shore, New York, which is on the south shore of Long Island. It was a great place to grow up. I always f…