Providence, R.I.--Reflecting a concern for environmental issues that was nurtured at PC, Mark Kravatz '03 created a new non-profit agency last year called the Sustainable Business Network of Rhode Island. His organization has since merged with the Apeiron Institute for Sustainable Living, a Providence-based group that promotes environmentally healthy practices.

Kravatz, who holds the title of director of sustainable business development, said the move will allow like-minded groups to share resources and better coordinate environmental initiatives. Apeiron's programs currently include an annual sustainable living festival, educational development opportunities, and a directory of sustainability resources throughout the state.

"Personally, I have a difficult time with the idea of creating unnecessary nonprofit competition and spending unnecessary grant dollars for the creation of a new nonprofit with required expenses like office equipment and administrative overhead," he said.

As director of sustainable business development, Kravatz devotes his attention primarily to green jobs, environmentally friendly business practices, and networking and development. Current projects include green literacy and job training programs, renewable energy funding for local farmers and small businesses, and consulting and collaboration with other nonprofits throughout the state.

Kravatz described the initial days of the merger as a "very positive" experience.

"The merger has helped solidify and build confidence among funders for my work," he said. "They are no longer contemplating funding a brand new nonprofit startup, but an organization with a longstanding record for sustainable work."

A sharpened perspective
According to Kravatz, his experiences at PC taught him "how to reflect and learn and perhaps provide a solution or two for the many environmental conundrums we presently find ourselves in."

"Even though my initial professional interests and passions when leaving PC did not directly relate to environmental studies, I have come to form the perspective that society's consistent actions to degrade our environment, as well as a rapid and oftentimes gluttonous consumption of natural resources, is a main agent for the social and economic stresses we see in our world today," he said.

Kravatz graduated with a degree in public and community service studies and was involved in Campus Ministry--two pursuits that he said played a significant role in his development.

"Both offered me the opportunity to think deeply about my relationship to others, my community, this country, and the greater world," he said. "Both challenged me to reflect consistently on my values as well as be conscious of, and care about, the lives of all people."

Kravatz said that his work at Apeiron presents a number of exciting opportunities.

"I am feeling extremely fortunate to be in a position to work with people, on topics, and in communities that provide such sustenance to my life," he said.

-- Joe Miller '10

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