“We get to be out in nature all day — I really love that,” shared 12-year-old Annika, who we met on a recent visit to Whole Life Learning Center (WLLC). With nearly two acres of space in South Austin, WLLC is creating “living classrooms” where students are encouraged to connect with the natural world around them.

Visiting the school, it’s clear to see the impact of outdoor learning. Teacher John prepares a garden for his Ecostudies class later that day. Students on a break create their own version of leapfrog with the help of the school’s baby goats. The campus is buzzing with activity.

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Top 7 Achievements

Led the creation and final City Council adoption of the Austin Climate Equity Plan through a unique community-…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…