Benjamin Winkler, Environmental Representative – Waste Diversion, St. Louis Department of Public Health, Missouri Gateway Green Building Council Member since February 2023, Green School Quest Mentor since 2020
Description of your work in green building: I work for St. Louis County Department of Public Health with Waste Diversion. I am the Schools’ Coordinator teaching K-12 students about sustainability and the environment, from recycling to compost, to ocean plastic, to name a few.
Recent Green Building recognition: The schools I’ve mentored have had success in the Green Schools Quest, winning awards such as Rookie of the Year. It’s fulfilling seeing the students lead projects and get recognition for the work they do throughout the year.
Sustainability passion: My passion for sustainability comes from always wanting to learn and hear other people’s stories. I consider myself late to the sustainability game, but I love seeing children’s passion for their future and the work people of all ages have been putting forth to ensure a better world today.
Most meaningful experience with MGGBC Chapter: I love being a mentor for the Green Schools Quest. This is my fourth year participating, and it’s rewarding getting to work closer with individual schools. My job allows me to visit any school in St. Louis County with our free programs, and the Quest is a nice way to have recurring visits and stronger bonds.
What will most impact the future of green building: Adults listening to children’s concerns and ideas regarding climate change and helping those children put their plans into action, will impact the future of green building.
Favorite place in the St. Louis region or Missouri Gateway GBC territory: The Missouri Botanical Garden is my favorite place in St. Louis. It’s close to my home and you can often find me sitting in the Japanese garden reading or writing.