Date of Award

Spring 5-8-2026

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Department

Environmental Studies

Advisor(s)

John Van Buren

Abstract

As a global society, the issues affecting a specific city or country are no longer isolated; instead, they impact other places in myriad ways. Over the past few decades, environmental degradation and economic inequality, both within and between countries, have caused shortages of necessities like food and water, inadequate access to safe energy sources, and increased pollution, impacting people’s prosperity and the well-being of the planet. It is of global interest to remediate these issues for the betterment and progress of society, and thus, an approach to addressing these complications collectively and comprehensively is of utmost importance. This paper investigates workforce development programs that support people in resolving food and energy access issues and pollution, effectively uplifting environmental protection and economic security. Chapter 1 describes the current environmental outlook through the lens of ecosystem services, the history of how society reached this point, and then outlines the case studies and interview methodology that constitute the exemplars for this research. Chapter 2 focuses on policy support for sustainable food systems and methods of sourcing and distributing produce in economically and socially equitable ways. Chapter 3 illustrates the economic implications of renewable energy and energy efficiency projects, and how access to affordable, clean, and safe energy impacts social and economic equity. Chapter 4 specifies the impacts of circular waste streams on environmental and social justice. Chapter 5 provides an informed perspective on where society is currently headed and how workforce development opportunities and their pathways for integration could be further employed to create positive change. Proliferation of equitable and sustainable workforce programs has the potential to catalyze a just transition; however, to be effective, collaboration among governments, businesses, and communities across the world is essential. Case study interviews with three organizations in New York City engaged in these workforce programs provide definitive evidence on their operations and effects on equity and sustainability.

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