Join us in welcoming our newest team member, Molly Ellsworth. Molly is stepping into the role of Environmental Program Coordinator, where she will support climate resilience efforts and advance the goals of Austin's Climate Equity Plan. We asked Molly a few questions to learn more about her passions, her journey to this work, and what she's looking forward to in her new role.
Q: Where are you from, and what do you like best about your hometown?
A: "I grew up in Portland, Oregon, and later moved to Madison, Wisconsin. In Portland, my favorite tradition was our family trips to Cannon Beach. I’d spend hours creating driftwood sculptures and exploring the tidepools! My family has always loved being in nature, so we were constantly heading out on a hiking or camping trip. In Madison, I appreciated the distinct seasons (except maybe the snow in May) and the strong sense of community. People there are incredibly friendly and always seemed to be out and about — cross-country skiing, impromptu concerts in the park, shopping at the farmer’s market, or checking out a new brewery."
Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself and what interested you in joining the Office of Sustainability.
A: "I knew from an early age that I was passionate about environmental justice. Part of my family is from the Muskogee Creek Nation, and dinnertime chats often found their way to sustainability topics. In high school, I had the opportunity to study abroad in China, where I felt the effects of poor air quality firsthand. I was fortunate enough to be able to follow these passions, and much of my career has centered on climate resilience.
In 2016, I moved to Texas to work in the air emissions cap-and-trade program with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. In this role, I learned how programs like this can lower emissions but can also disproportionately affect frontline communities. The experience inspired me to learn more about environmental justice policy. I became a consultant working with tribes and cities to support climate adaptation planning and fell in love with co-producing solutions with communities. In my last role, I worked with community groups in Houston to develop climate action plans and implement resilience projects. Our biggest win was securing EPA funding for an air monitoring network in neighborhoods near industrial facilities. While the work in Houston was incredibly rewarding, I'm excited to turn my lens towards my now home: Austin. I'm looking forward to deepening my involvement in Austin’s environmental community and contributing to ongoing resilience and equity initiatives."
Q: What are you most excited to accomplish during your time with the Office of Sustainability?
A: "I’m most excited to try making our resilience planning efforts fully representative of Austin’s diversity. We know that climate change impacts everyone but isn't felt equally across our communities. I'm looking forward to partnering with Austinites ensuring strategies are tailored local needs." She added she is also eager "to dive into our study refrigerant usage" noting how they contribute climate change opportunities mitigate impact.
Q: What are some of your favorite things do places go Austin?
A:"I live near Shoal Creek so you'll often find me walking trail tossing frisbee Pease Park avid beach volleyball player frequently found pickup game Aussie’s Moontower one local parks been here eight years never feel more Austinite cheering sports teams try attend many UT FC games as can!"
Q: What is your favorite sustainable thing do personal life?
A:"When first moved involved Shoal Conservancy really enjoyed participating volunteer events tree plantings creek cleanups great way meet passionate people outside give back community continually shocked see many electric scooters pull creek!"
Q: What is your favorite food why?
A:"My absolute favorite food mapo tofu spicier better spent junior year high school China fell love numbing sensation Sichuan cuisine best mapo tofu found House Three Gorges really appreciate slogan Keep Spicy."
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