Island Green Living Association Impact Report June 2023
Island Green Living Association, a nonprofit in the U.S. Virgin Islands, aims to advance sustainability through various programs and initiatives. With a focus on waste reduction, recycling, and food security, the organization is making a significant environmental impact. Through effective management and community engagement, Island Green is recognized for its accomplishments in promoting a greener future for the territory. Join the efforts to support a healthier environment and a more sustainable way of living.
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Island Green Living Association Impact Report June 2023
Who We Are Founded in 2004, Island Green Living Association is a registered 501 (c)(3) nonprofit on St. John dedicated to advancing sustainability throughout the U.S. Virgin Islands. Its aim is to transform the USVI into a net zero waste, carbon-neutral territory in order to protect the environment, support food security and ensure its health, welfare and economic security. RETHINK, REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE!
Why Our Efforts Matter As an island destination with one million visitors per year, the USVI is especially vulnerable to environmental concerns. A 2021 report found that 62% of the USVI waste stream is recyclable or compostable. However, due to lack on municipal SMM, these items languish in overflowing landfills, pollute our waterways, and litter streets and parklands. 97% of the USVI food supply is imported, exacerbating waste and carbon emissions while lowering freshness & nutritional value. Along with other sustainability issues locally, this constitutes a significant environmental justice concern. Our vital reuse/recycling programs, advocacy/education & food security efforts deliver critical results... ...BUT WE CAN T DO IT WITHOUT YOUR HELP
Island Green is Internationally Recognized for its Accomplishments & Efficient Management
Among the Most Impactful Nonprofits in the Territory, Serving as a Model for Other Islands 888,000+ lbs. of building & household material diverted from landfill Nearly 2.7 million aluminum cans crushed 47,500 + lbs. of ocean-bound plastic recycled since 2022 launch Advocacy resulting in ban of plastic straws, bags, toxic sunscreen, etc. Mulching/composting pilot program earned a Clinton Global Initiative Call to Action designation
Among the Most Impactful Nonprofits in the Territory, Serving as a Model for Other Islands Green education launch of aquaponics & hydroponics at Gifft Hill School 3,172 volunteer hours per year Ban the Burn contributed to the territory s excellent air quality, one of only three regions meeting WHO s standards Audited financials confirm fundraising administrative costs to be zero
Island Green Programs Aluminum Can Recycling Program Ocean-Bound Plastic Recycling Program Recycling Collections & Recycling Business Partners ReSource Depot Thrift Shop Food/Agriculture Sustainability Initiatives Green Advocacy & Community Education
Aluminum Can Recycling St. John s only aluminum can recycling program began in 2014 and has grown exponentially, with 1.5 million cans collected since the start of 2022 (2.7 million since inception). It is vital as it extends the life cycle of this valuable resource while reducing the mining of virgin materials.
Ocean-Bound Plastic Recycling Launched in February 2022, St. John s only single-use plastics recycling program allows #1, 2 & 5 plastics a new lease on life while keeping it out of the landfill. AVOID SINGLE USE PLASTICS! But once plastic is part of the waste stream, this program mitigates and reclaims this material.
Recycling Collections & Recycling Business Partners In May 2022, Island Green s recycling bins were stationed at popular VIWMA trash sites around the island, significantly increasing community participation. Our dedicated truck makes regular pick ups, then we process materials. Additionally, 16 local businesses signed on as Recycling Business Partners to have their recyclable waste collected directly by Island Green Living.
ReSource Depot A "Habitat for Humanity" ReStore-style thrift shop, the ReSource Depot is the only facility of its kind on St. John. It provides a clearinghouse for donated building, household & other materials that would otherwise waste away in the landfill, extending the life cycle of these items while selling them at affordable prices to the community.
Food/Ag Sustainability Initiatives In addition to serving on the Governor s Agricultural Plan Task Force, Island Green sponsors aquaponics & hydroponics and related curriculum at Gifft Hill School and encourages ag education throughout the territory. We also partner on events and community workshops to educate and expand composting, home gardening and food security.
Green Advocacy & Community Education Forefront of sustainable education & advocacy including: Share the Sun partnership Education on crucial bans of toxic sunscreen; plastic straws & bags; Ban the Burn, etc. Importance of Four Rs Advocacy on assessment & removal of toxins at Caneel Bay ...And much more
Island Green Board of Directors Harith Wickrema, President Mark Lichtenstein, Vice President Akhil Deshwal, Secretary Curtis Penn, Treasurer Brad Camrud Rob Crane Jim Dobrowolski Trey Goldsmith Dr. Greg Guannel Dr. David Hall Randy Thurman For 19 years, non-profit Island Green Living s work has focused on turning what many would consider waste into a resource. Accolades include a EPA Environmental Champion Award in 2017 & a CGI Commitment to Action designation by the Clinton Foundation in 2020.
Your Continued Support Will Catapult Results to Even Greater Heights Thank You for Your Support Island Green Operates Almost Exclusively Through Donations and Grants
