John Richardson | Building Town-Gown Partnerships

John Richardson isn't sure his career path existed when he was in college. Inspired by his parents, who coupled environmental stewardship with municipal service in their careers,  Richardson earned a master's degree in urban and regional planning. Since 2007, he's been the Town of Chapel Hill's go-to person for sustainability. In the 16 years since he's been with the town, he's nurtured a robust relationship with UNC-Chapel Hill faculty, students and staff. In the past few years, his team has transformed to a team of one to an office of three.

UNC-Chapel Hill Chief Sustainability Office Mike Piehler talks with Richardson for this town-and-gown episode of the Sustainable Carolina Podcast.

Launched in fall 2020, Sustainable Carolina is the University’s comprehensive initiative to advance and amplify all sustainability activities, including reducing the University’s environmental footprint through three goals: net zero water usage, zero waste to landfills and net zero greenhouse gas emissions. Led by Chief Sustainability Officer Michael Piehler, Sustainable Carolina will advance these goals through collaborative partnerships across operations, academics, and research.