The Intersection of Workforce Development and Climate Justice
with Browning the Green Space
Today's guest is Kerry Bowie, Founder, President and Executive Director of Browning the Green Space.
Browning the Green Space (BGS) is a voluntary coalition of leaders and organizations primarily in the New England region that share a passion to advance diversity, equity and inclusion in clean energy. The organization's goal is to increase the participation and leadership of people in underrepresented or excluded groups, including people of color and women in the clean energy space and beyond.
We cover a lot in this episode, including the origin story of BGS and we go way back to Kerry's background, his youth and experiences, as well as some of the motivations for why he’s focused on DEI, workforce development, and clean energy. We also talk about tactics. How do we systemically make changes? How do we increase equality and justice? What are some things that have and haven't worked? And most importantly, what is the path for the future?
Enjoy the show!
In today’s episode, we cover:
Origin story of Browning the Green Space (BGS)
Overview of the nonprofit and its mission
Kerry's background in environmental engineering, environmental justice, and consulting
BGS's focus on the 5 C's: careers, companies, capital, contracts, and communities
The intersection between environmental, social, and economic justice issues
The importance of cultural connections in community development
The threat of climate change to underrepresented communities on a day to day level
Differences of energy burden between urban centers and BIPOC communities vs wealthy neighborhoods
How money and wealth are major contributors to environmental inequality
Kerry's motivation in workforce development
The luxury of thinking about climate change as an existential threat
Barriers to alleviating environmental issues faced by lower income communities
Regulations that need to be upheld, including the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act
Kerry's thoughts on government and its shortcomings
Hopeful action from younger generations
BGS's fundraising goals and who they want to hear from