Philly

Meet the SustainPHL Sustainable Storyteller nominees for 2023

These nominees use their narratives, whether through written, visual, or multimedia content, to inspire positive change and encourage actions that contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future.

Philadelphia’s SustainPHL Awards highlights and celebrates these community changemakers. Join us to honor them and announce the recipient at the SustainPHL Awards on October 19th at the Academy of Natural Sciences. 

Sarah McAnulty

Sarah is a dedicated advocate for sustainability and environmental awareness in the Fishtown and Riverwards area, making remarkable efforts to connect people of all ages to their local environment. She has organized engaging activities like “Nature Bingo” and distributed Halloween science facts, actively involving the community in appreciating and understanding their surroundings. Sarah has also championed Delaware River-themed biodiversity murals with QR codes that provide access to sustainability and science-focused education, fostering a deeper connection to the environment.

Sarah operates the local “Squidmobile,” offering squid facts to anyone who texts her hotline as a fun and approachable way to educate people about science. She even arranged a field trip for the Fishtown Neighbors Association to the Water Works, further engaging the community with their local environment. Her tireless efforts promote a relatable and approachable connection to the environment, encouraging people to care for their natural resources while spreading smiles and knowledge throughout Fishtown.

Andrew Conboy

Andrew is actively engaged in promoting sustainability through his environmental education efforts on various social media platforms, particularly focusing on urban forestry and making this knowledge accessible to the Greater Philadelphia community. He demonstrates expertise in both the environmental and educational domains.

Additionally, Andrew runs a non-profit organization called “Colonial Canopy Trees,” which is dedicated to reintroducing native plants into ecosystems and eliminating invasive species. His work contributes to raising awareness and taking practical steps to enhance environmental conservation and sustainability. You can find more about his initiatives on his website and social media profiles.

Bradley Flamm

Dr. Bradley Flamm has played a pivotal role in leading West Chester University towards becoming a highly sustainable institution. As the Director of the university’s Office of Sustainability since 2017, he collaborates closely with students, faculty, staff, and the wider community through the Sustainability Council. Under his guidance, West Chester University has adopted an ambitious Climate Action Plan and identified sustainability as a top priority in its Strategic Plan.

Dr. Flamm’s expertise spans various facets of higher education sustainability, including energy management, zero waste strategies, curriculum development, sustainable food systems, and eco-friendly transportation services. His extensive background as a transportation planner, researcher, instructor, food security analyst, and environmental advocate enriches his work. West Chester University’s sustainability efforts have earned recognition, including being honored at the 2023 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools ceremony in Washington, D.C.

Julie Hancher

Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia.

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