MEDIA, Pa. — Failure to address climate issues will bring economic consequences and could affect job prospects, a nonprofit leader told graduates at Penn State Brandywine’s fall commencement ceremony on Dec. 20.
Elizabeth Killough is director of the Media-based Untours Foundation, which provides loans and support to green, leading-edge businesses that address social and economic issues, including creating jobs for vulnerable populations. The foundation owns Untours, a certified B Corporation that provides planning and transportation support for independent travelers.
“All businesses we invest in must take the climate crisis into account and be models for others to aspire to,” she said, citing examples such as a laundry service that uses bicycles for pick-up and delivery, a no-plastic grocery store, and several zero-waste fashion companies.
“We’ve lived beyond our means and beyond the limits of the Earth to restore itself and provide for us,” added Killough, who has played a key role in building a Fair Trade movement nationally and in Media. “Our lack of stewardship for the Earth and for your healthy futures is unconscionable. You need to hold us accountable and demand we take more action to turn the crisis around.”
Killough also encouraged graduates to connect with people who can provide them with assistance when needed.