My name is Noelle Elsie Britton from Oakville, Ontario. I am currently in HBA1 and before Ivey, I majored in Film Studies. Before that, I completed a Specialized High School Major in Art and Design in 2020 after leaving the National Ballet School in 2018. I am the granddaughter of Irish and Chinese immigrants, and I am very proud of my heritage. I am the oldest of 4 siblings, three girls and one boy, with Ripley the dog as our bonus sibling.  

What is your personal definition of sustainability?

My personal definition of sustainability is the practice of keeping an eye on the future and planning forward-looking initiatives. Considering the significant warnings from the scientific community, it is more important than ever that corporations and individuals keep future generations at the forefront of their activities. Not only should environmental sustainability be prioritized. I believe that social sustainability, the belief that a social system should function well indefinitely, is also incredibly important. Therefore, when looking at the impact of a corporation of individual, you cannot only consider their carbon footprint, but also their social impact.  

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

I hope to work in marketing, which means that I have the potential to work for a corporation that produces consumer products. I hope to maintain my sustainability-centered values, especially if I take on a leadership role. I hope to keep a mindset that is not only profit-oriented, but also looks to bettering the future. Therefore, when making key decisions, I hope to reflect on both the social and environmental impact of the corporation’s actions.  

What sustainability projects have you been engaged in?

When I reflect on the sustainability projects I’ve participated in, one really stands out to me. A few summers ago, I had the privilege of working for a subsidized housing co-op. There, one of my responsibilities was to serve as a liaison between the building administration and the tenants. I consider this a sustainability project because it facilitated housing access for the population that exists within cities rather than expecting these individuals to relocate themselves to make way for wealthier populations. This style of housing also ensures that already-built spaces are being fully utilized rather than continuing to build more infrastructure to support a growing population. The co-op is a clear example of effective social sustainability, and really made me realize the importance of ensuring the entire population is supported.