An Interview With Monica Sanders
Start Small, Then Scale Up: Focus on manageable goals first. Testing concepts in small settings helps refine and grow them over time, just like we did with gardens in schools, starting with a few locations before scaling up across Nevada. One school at a time!
According to the University of Colorado, “Those who are most affected and have the fewest resources to adapt to climate change are also the least responsible for the greenhouse gas emissions — both globally and within the United States.” Promoting climate justice is an incredibly important environmental responsibility that is slowly becoming more and more recognized. In this interview series, we are talking to leaders who are helping to promote sustainability and climate justice. As part of this series, we had the pleasure of interviewing Woody Worthington.
As the Senior Director of Government Affairs and Community Engagement at Green Our Planet, Woody Worthington continues to play a pivotal role in further promoting sustainability in school garden and hydroponics programs. Driven by his passion for sustainability and education, Woody has shown dedication to finding innovative, sustainable practices to implement into these programs. His work enhances Green Our Planet’s mission in providing students with an education that teaches STEM, financial literacy, sustainability and environmental stewardship through a hands-on learning approach.
Thank you so much for doing this with us! Before we dig in, our readers would like to get to know you a bit. Can you tell us a bit about how you grew up?
I grew up on a sustainable ranch in Rogue River, Oregon. It was an incredible place to call home! We were surrounded by nature, hard work, and the values that come with living off the land. My parents taught me the power of sustainability and keeping our ecosystem balanced. They instilled in me that when you care for the environment and the people around you, you’re building a better future. It’s a belief that’s shaped everything I do today. From raising animals to growing our own food, it wasn’t just a lifestyle, it was our livelihood and day to day chores that shaped my passion for agriculture and sustainability. That foundation eventually led me to work with communities to improve their agricultural practices and connect with people who share that same vision for a healthier planet. It’s been an awesome journey, and I’m stoked to share a little piece of it with you!
Everyone has a cataclysmic moment or marker in their life is which propels them to take certain actions, a “why”. What your why?
My “why” is very personal to me! When I was growing up on a sustainable ranch, I saw firsthand how fragile the balance of nature really is. We had a variety of animals such as cattle, chickens, and goats. They all played a key role in our regenerative farming practices. The cows helped fertilize the soil, chickens kept pests in check, and the goats maintained our pastures and ate those pesky weeds. Each animal was part of a delicate cycle that helped restore the land, improve soil health, and reduce waste. This connection between the land, the animals, and the cycle, became so clear to me. I feel this deep responsibility to protect it, not just for myself, but for everyone who will come after us. That’s what drives me to create real change and protect what we have.
You are currently leading an organization that is making a difference for our planet. Can you tell us a bit about what you and your organization are trying to change?
At Green Our Planet, we’re working to change how people think about food, sustainability, and the environment. Our mission is to connect young people with the power of agriculture and environmental education. By teaching students hands-on farming techniques and sustainable practices, we’re creating the next generation of environmental leaders who will know how to take care of the planet. We’re not just talking about change, we’re empowering students to take action now and to understand that their choices today impact the world tomorrow. From hydroponics to progressive farming, we’re creating solutions that not only benefit our schools but the environment as a whole. It’s about building a sustainable future, one student at a time.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you began leading your company or organization?
One of the most memorable moments for me happened during our Giant Students Farmers Market we hosted, where K-12 students showcased produce from our gardens. The excitement was contagious as students set up their booths, engaged with customers, and proudly shared what they had grown. What struck me was the common connection between the students which we call “farmpreneurs.” Whether discussing growing techniques or sharing farming practices, there was an undeniable connection to the land and the food that they had cultivated. For many of these students, it was their first time at a farmers market, and they were learning real-world lessons about sustainability, entrepreneurship, and community engagement. It reinforced how powerful it is to teach kids where their food comes from and how that knowledge creates a deep connection to the environment.
None of us can be successful without some help along the way. Did you have mentors or cheerleaders who helped you to succeed? Can you tell us a story about their influence?
Two major influences in my life have been my late father and my faith in God. My father taught me to love and respect nature, not just for its beauty, but for its purpose in the world. He showed me that everything, whether it’s the smallest animal or the land we worked on. All of these things have a place and role in the bigger picture. Those lessons about connections and responsibility have stayed with me, shaping how I approach sustainability and agriculture today.
On the other hand, my faith has provided a deeper perspective on the importance of caring for the Earth. I see God’s magnificent works in nature and how everything from the tiniest seed to the tallest tree is part of a divine design. My belief that we are caretakers of this planet drives my work and my passion for creating positive change. Both my father and my faith have instilled in me a sense of duty to protect and nurture the world around us.
Thank you for that. Let’s now move to the central part of our discussion. Let’s start with a basic definition of terms so that everyone is on the same page. What does climate justice mean to you? How do we operationalize it?
For me, climate justice is personal. Growing up on a sustainable ranch, I saw how the land and the people are interconnected, and how communities with limited resources often bear the brunt of environmental challenges.
One example is when we implemented hydroponic farming in local schools. It wasn’t just about teaching kids how to grow food sustainably, it was about giving them the tools to make healthier choices and access nutritious food, even in food deserts. By connecting them directly to the source of their food, we empowered students to take control of their health and environment. This approach embodies climate justice ensuring everyone, no matter their background, has the chance to be part of the solution and experience the benefits of a sustainable, healthy future.
Science is telling us that we have 7–10 years to make critical decisions about climate change. What are three things you or your organization are doing to help?
At Green Our Planet, we know that time is running out, and we’re committed to taking action. Here are three things we’re focusing on to help:
- Educational Initiatives: We’re empowering students with the knowledge and tools they need to make sustainable choices. Our programs teach kids about the science of climate change, food systems, and sustainability. We believe the next generation will lead the charge in solving climate issues, so we’re giving them the education and hands-on experience they need to be leaders in their communities.
- Sustainable Farming Practices: Through our progressive garden programs and curriculum, we’re helping schools grow their own food sustainably. By teaching students how to grow fresh, healthy food using minimal resources, we’re addressing food security while reducing the carbon footprint of food production.
- Community Engagement: We’re working to bridge the gap between communities and sustainable solutions. Whether it’s through farmers markets, school gardens, or local partnerships, we’re creating real-world connections to sustainability, showing people that they can make a difference right where they are.
These actions are just the start, but they’re critical in shaping the future we want for our planet. Every choice we make now will have a lasting impact, and we’re committed to doing everything we can to help lead that change.
Are there three things the community, society, or politicians can do to help you in your mission?
Yes, here are three actions that can significantly help in advancing Green Our Planet’s mission:
- Support for Agricultural Education: Community leaders, policymakers, and society at large can advocate for and fund agricultural education programs, particularly those that integrate sustainability practices into school curriculums. This creates long-term awareness and skill development for future generations.
- Legislative Advocacy and Funding: Politicians can pass and support bills that provide funding and incentives for sustainable agriculture and hydroponic programs, ensuring resources are available for scaling up these initiatives, like the Garden Stem bill we are putting forward.
- Collaboration and Partnerships: Building partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and other stakeholders can amplify Green Our Planet’s reach. The more aligned the community is around these values, the easier it will be to create lasting change.
These initiatives will make a real difference in building a sustainable future.
How would you articulate how a business can become more profitable by being more sustainable and more environmentally conscious? Can you share a story or example?
A business can become more profitable by being more sustainable because it cuts costs, attracts loyal customers, and taps into the growing demand for eco-friendly products and practices. Making smarter, environmentally conscious choices often leads to savings and can set a brand apart in a crowded market.
In my community there is a coffee company? I am sure you have heard of them 🙂 Starbucks! They’ve made a big push toward sustainability by implementing a zero waste initiative. Starbucks’ zero waste initiative focuses on reducing waste through reusable cup programs, sustainable packaging, and waste diversion in stores. It emphasizes recycling, composting, and innovative solutions like borrow-and-return systems to achieve a circular economy and reduce its environmental impact. This has helped them also reduce operational costs while attracting customers who care about the environment. Plus, it’s boosted their brand image as a responsible company, drawing in more loyal customers who align with those values. Starbucks has proven that being green isn’t just good for the planet, it’s great for business too.
What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started promoting sustainability and climate justice” and why?
1 . Start Small, Then Scale Up: Focus on manageable goals first. Testing concepts in small settings helps refine and grow them over time, just like we did with gardens in schools, starting with a few locations before scaling up across Nevada. One school at a time!
2 . Don’t Fear Resistance! Use It to Refine Your Message: Facing resistance is natural. We had skepticism initially about our hydroponic systems in our first schools which helped improve our messaging and approach, ultimately leading to wider acceptance and greater impact.
3 . The Numbers Matter, But the Story is What Resonates: Data is important, but real-world stories are what inspire change. Personal stories, like a teacher transforming her classroom with a hydroponic garden, turn sustainability from an abstract concept to something tangible and relatable. Project base learning is a no brainer!
4 . It Takes Time. Don’t Burn Out: Sustainability is a long-term journey, and progress can feel slow. Small victories matter, and maintaining patience and self-compassion is key to staying energized and focused on the bigger picture.
5 . Celebrate the Wins, Big and Small: Acknowledge the progress, no matter how small, because each step forward is part of the larger vision. Celebrating victories boosts morale and keeps momentum going, especially when the road ahead seems long. Every new school that adopts a hydroponic system is a win. Even when things don’t move as quickly as hoped, we take time to celebrate each milestone, whether it’s a successful workshop, a new partnership, or positive student feedback. These moments remind us that we’re making a real difference.
Is there a person in the world, or in the US with whom you would like to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we tag them. 🙂
If I could have a private breakfast with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. would be a solid choice. His focus on environmental issues and sustainability aligns with what I care about, especially in terms of education and agriculture. I’d want to hear his thoughts on how to engage communities more effectively and navigate the complexities of policy while pushing for change. It would be fascinating to discuss how we can scale up programs for lasting impact, and how his experiences could guide initiatives like Green Our Planet moving forward, especially with the goal of integrating our program into the nation’s education system.
How can our readers continue to follow your work online?
Readers can further follow my work online in two ways that can be found below.
Green Our Planet Website: https://www.greenourplanet.org/
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/woody-worthington-95713725
This was very meaningful, thank you so much. We wish you only continued success on your great work!
How Woody Worthington Of Green Our Planet Is Helping to Promote Sustainability and Climate Justice was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.