Amy Armbruster is a research and outreach manager promoting the important Three Zeros Environmental Initiative. This job is a lot less dangerous than one of her previous jobs protecting the environment: putting out forest fires!
What is your role in the Three Zeros Environmental Initiative?
I am the research and outreach manager. Launched in 2016, the Initiative is Carolina’s integrated approach to reducing its environmental footprint through three sustainability goals:
- net zero water usage;
- zero waste to landfills; and
- net zero greenhouse gas emissions.
Implementing the Three Zeros’ goals will improve operational efficiency, generate cost savings, and will create a living-learning laboratory for students, faculty and staff to study and advance the most recent developments in sustainability policy and technology. Three Zeros includes everything from individual behaviors to world-changing research and collaborations.
What did you do before you came to Carolina?
I worked for a non-profit in Pittsboro called the Carolina Farm Stewardship Association. I told stories about organic farmers, which was incredibly rewarding. You might know the organization for its awesome Piedmont Farm Tour.
What is your favorite part of working here?
I love the spirit of community. Everyone is so welcoming and supportive, and the Sunshine, Sustainability and other committees bring everyone together, so it feels like we are all working on the same team.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I love to go hiking and canoeing in beautiful places. I love yoga and running. But, my favorite thing is to read books. I have two sons, Dawson (8) and Theo (4), so I rarely have time to read anything that isn’t a picture book or a Percy Jackson novel, but those are a lot of fun too.
What is something people probably wouldn’t know about you or another fun item you’d like to share?
A few of the wilder jobs I’ve had: fire fighter in a Florida nature preserve; canoe tour guide on the Hudson River; and swim instructor for a summer camp.
What I’m watching now: Call the Midwife
What I’m reading now: The Sixth Extinction by Elizabeth Kolbert
Who I’m listening to: Stevie Wonder
Dream vacation destination: Cornwall in the UK or a tropical island in the Caribbean