I'm excited to share the capstone project I completed through my recent energy fellowship with Transform Power Systems and the National Grid Clean Energy Career Academy, where I focused on strengthening Boston’s Zero Waste Plan by applying research, stakeholder engagement, and systems analysis to real-world challenges in urban sustainability.
As someone interested in researching social needs, I explored how Boston can enhance its waste and recycling strategy by expanding public engagement, improving access to information, and introducing better digital tracking tools to support policy goals, especially in underserved neighborhoods disproportionately affected by waste management gaps.
🔍 Key Skills Applied:
✔️ Stakeholder Engagement: Met with Boston Public Works, Boston Environment Department, and local elected city officials to understand implementation roadblocks, data limitations, and communication challenges
✔️ Program & Policy Analysis: Reviewed city and state documentation, conducted gap analysis vs. 2019 Zero Waste goals, and benchmarked best practices from other cities
✔️ Data-Informed Strategy Design: Proposed updated performance and financial metrics, including diversion and contamination rates, and cost-per-ton benchmarks
✔️ Cross-Sector Communication: Developed proposals aimed at both municipal teams and residents, including educational materials and digital solutions
✔️ Community-Centered Design: Focused on solutions that address equity gaps, improve participation in recycling, and empower residents with accessible tools and information
📱 Solution Highlights:
✔️Citywide visual sorting system (color-coded for compost, landfill, recycling)
✔️Mobile app for residents with item search, pickup reminders, and recycling tips
✔️Neighborhood ambassador program to build trust and awareness
✔️Digital framework for updated measurement and tracking of waste flows
This experience deepened my commitment to public-sector climate work and gave me direct exposure to the challenges of local government systems, data gaps, and community outreach.
How is your city or organization approaching waste reduction and community engagement? I’d love to hear what’s working—or what challenges you’re facing.
#Sustainability #UrbanInnovation #WasteReduction #CircularEconomy #ClimateCareers #PublicPolicy #EnvironmentalJustice #Energytransition