Sustainability through Entrepreneurship at NYU
President Hamilton recently shared NYU’s ongoing sustainability projects, including the installation of solar panels on top of Bobst library; multiple schools’ pushes to reduce lighting, heating, and other carbon footprint components; and the dining halls’ participation in the Cool Food Pledge, with the ultimate goal to cut NYU’s food-related emissions by 25 percent by 2030.
While institutional change is important, progress often begins at a grassroots level and it’s no surprise NYU alumni are at the forefront of creating change. In honor of Earth Month, we are highlighting NYU alumni entrepreneurs whose businesses are dedicated to creating a more sustainable future. This list includes urban farming, skincare, engineering consulting, and more.
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This is not an exhaustive list and only highlights a small number of NYU alumni businesses. Please visit the NYU Alumni-Owned Business Directory for a more comprehensive list or to submit your business. Please note inclusion does not indicate endorsement by NYU.
AP Consulting Engineers, DPC
This MEP consulting engineering firm, founded by Nicolay Aronov (TANDON ’10), has a deep focus on energy and sustainability, lighting, and safety in building construction designs.
Make Something Better, LLC
Make Something Better offers consulting for schools as they transition to sustainability. Founder Eric Wilson’s (STEINHARDT ’04) first offering includes a series of children's books with an environmental theme: Gracie Greene Adventures.
Nuthatch Naturals LLC
Nuthatch Naturals offers natural, sustainable, and allergy-tested skin care products designed specifically for children with dry and irritated skin. The company founded by Marc de Mul (STERN ’05) also uses sustainable, recyclable packaging.
Sabai
Founded by Phantila Phataraprasit (LAW ’20), Sabai aims to set a new standard for earth-friendly, affordable, and beautiful furniture. For easy customization, Sabai offers free fabric swatches in upcycled and recycled fabrics to try before purchasing.
Discount: Use code: COZYNYU for $75 off
Sustainable South Bronx
Sustainable South Bronx, founded by Majora Carter (GSAS '97), addresses economic and environmental issues in the South Bronx and beyond, through a combination of green jobs training, community greening programs, and social enterprise.
We Are The New Farmers
Jonas Guenther’s (TANDON ’18) We Are The New Farmers is a mission-driven urban farm creating carbon neutral, plant-based, food products from microalgae, a highly sustainable and nutritious food source.