Black Voices in Sustainability (Past and Present)

When considering the extensive legacy of black American history, the contributions of black environmentalists throughout the course of history are undeniable. Both past and present, African American leaders across the country have advocated for food sustainability, a stable environment, safe drinking water and more. Whether they are agriculturalists, environmentalists, scientists or activists, these leaders have dedicated their lives to improving the health of our communities, families and climates. Here are six black voices (past and present) that have advanced and innovated the fields of conservation and environmentalism for a more sustainable world:

MaVynee Oshun Betsch (1935-2005)

MaVynee Betsch, known as “The Beach Lady”, was an environmentalist who was known for her continuous conservation efforts on behalf of Florida’s coastal environment. Betsch was given the nickname “The Beach Lady” as a result of her commitment to preserving and protecting American beaches and its inhabitants. Betsch was known for her unique style that included colorful dresses and long locs that made her the center of attention wherever she went. Over the course of her career, Betsch gave over $750,000 to at least 60 different environmental organizations, many of which she was a lifetime member of. As an advocate for all things natural, MaVynee Betsch’s contributions have helped preserve numerous habitats throughout the United States.

Solomon G. Brown (1829-1906)

Solomon G. Brown was the first African-American employee at the Smithsonian Institution working continuously from 1852-1906. While working at the Smithsonian, Brown was able to gain a considerable amount of knowledge in the field of natural history. Throughout his 50+ year career at the Smithsonian, Brown had several responsibilities including preparing for lectures and working in the International Exchange Service. Brown was particularly well-known for his illustrated lectures on natural history which he frequently presented to others in the Washington D.C. area. In addition to his work at the Smithsonian, Brown was also a poet, technician and also had a significant role in the implementation of the first electric telegraph. Brown’s career truly opened the door for other black Americans looking to enter the environmental science industry.

George Washington Carver (1864-1943)

We could not discuss sustainability without mentioning George Washington Carver as one of the most prominent black voices in sustainability. Carver is regarded as one of America’s greatest agricultural researchers and educators. His innovations in the field of crop rotation are considered breakthroughs in resource conservation, by preserving soil and making farms more productive. Also, Carver may have been one of the first scientists to study biomimicry, observing that nature produces no waste and what is consumed is returned to the whole in another form. Carver believed that nothing exists by itself and that everything connected; and argued that ignoring those facts could be disastrous for the environment. Thanks to his innovation and activism, Carver’s contributions brought about significant advancements in the agricultural industry and paved the way for a better life for other black Americans.

Majora Carter

Majora Carter is an American urban revitalization strategist, real estate developer and broadcaster who views urban renewal through an environmental lens. Based in New York City, Carter is currently working to bridge the gap between ecological, economic and social degradation. Her company, the Majora Carter Group, is putting the green economy and green economic tools to use, unlocking the potential of every place; from urban cities and rural communities, to universities, government projects and businesses. Carter is also known for being one of the first six speakers on the popular TEDTalks series and was awarded the 2005 John D. and Katherine T. McArthur Foundation Fellow “genius” grant in 2005. Carter’s ongoing efforts have redefined the field of environmental equality and have proven her a leader in the local economic development movement across the country.

Lisa Jackson

Lisa Jackson was the first African American and one of the few women to serve as Administrator for the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Appointed by President Obama in 2009, Jackson made it a priority to focus on vulnerable groups including children, the elderly, and low-income communities that are particularly susceptible to environmental and health threats. Also, during her time with the EPA, Jackson oversaw the development of stricter fuel efficiency standards and led the EPA to expand its commitment to engaging with and listening to all stakeholders in the decision-making process. Following her role with the EPA, Jackson began to serve as environmental director for Apple in 2013. Jackson’s ongoing efforts certainly serve as inspiration for black women making strides in the environmental field.

Van Jones

Well-known American news commentator, Van Jones, has also been hard at work in the fight against social injustice, particularly working to solve issues of poverty, crime and environmental degradation in American cities. As co-founder of Green for All, a national organization working to get green jobs to disadvantaged communities, Jones calls for an environmental revolution that is inclusive and equitable. Appointed as a green jobs advisor in 2009, he helped run the inter-agency process that oversaw $80 billion in green energy recovery spending and was the main advocate for the 2007 Green Jobs Act. Jones now leads Rebuild the Dream, a platform that promotes a social and economic recovery. certainly serve as inspiration for black women making strides in the environmental field.