My name is Jonathan Scouler and I love nature, animals, swimming, traveling, and spending time with friends. I was born in Russia and adopted to the US when I was around 8 months old to a Canadian Dad and a Mom from the US, giving me dual citizenship and resulting in my Canadian University experience. I grew up in an area surrounded by lakes and forests and have always had 3 or more dogs at home. I started swimming when I was 5 and fell in love, competing for 13 years and now transitioning to open water swimming.  

What is your personal definition of sustainability? 

My personal definition of sustainability is finding alternatives to live and produce goods and working towards conducting business in a way that prioritizes preserving natural resources and the environment. Sustainability is so important as it has direct ramifications on global warming and the future of the earth. Sustainability helps to reduce the amount of garbage, specifically plastic in the environment which ends up hurting animals and the earth. Companies need to work towards reducing their emissions and finding alternative ways to produce while being more cognizant of where the materials they use come from and where products will end up.  

What role do you see sustainability playing in your professional career? 

I see sustainability playing a large role in my professional career. I have been actively seeking out internships with companies who highlight sustainability as a key focus or are looking into transitioning into more sustainable practices of conducting business. If I do end up in a job which does not have a strong emphasis for sustainability, I plan to work towards finding ways to help transition parts of the company to focusing on ways to become more sustainable and greener. This is important to me as I have a deep love for nature, animals, and the oceans. Due to the buildup of carbon emissions and lack of awareness as to where trash goes has caused the formations of trash islands which causes the destruction of ecosystems which truly saddens me. I have a drive to help be the change and transition others to support sustainable products and packaging because I fear that the direction that we are currently going will result in a different world for our children and future generations. It frustrates me that people are so ignorant, and money driven that they are willing to overlook the most important thing mankind has, the earth.   

What sustainability projects have you been engaged in?

While I have not been part of many large-scale projects, I have contributed in smaller ways. In high school I helped by taking part in water walks to raise support for places that do not have easy access to water. When I see litter or recycling on the ground, I pick it up and relocate it to the appropriate place. I have also stopped eating ground beef and steak due to the negative impact raising cattle has on the earth and have been an advocate for reducing consumption of beef. Along with this I rarely use plastic bags as I try to bring my own or carry goods when going to stores. I always use a refillable water bottle and encourage others to do so as well. I consistently encourage my friends, family, and peers to do the same and turn off lights that are left on and have transitioned to LED lights for most of my lighting. I am looking to be more involved in helping create a sustainable earth and was delighted to hear about this certificate so that I can learn more about a strong interest of mine and help create change.