Sustainability can often feel daunting, especially with the constant stream of negative news about climate change and the environment. It’s easy to feel like one person can’t make a meaningful impact.
This relatable truth is what inspired the creation of Sustainability Matters, a grassroots environmental nonprofit based in Virginia’s northern Shenandoah Valley and Piedmont regions that empowers individuals and communities to embrace sustainable practices through realistic, inclusive and engaging initiatives.
The organization focuses on building community through conservation and bringing sustainability to unexpected places. In just four years, Sustainability Matters has organized more than 275 educational and outreach programs and engaged over 25,000 participants.
One Step at a Time
“One of the hardest parts about encouraging sustainability is getting people to take that first step and understanding that they can make a difference” said Executive Director Andrea McGimsey.
Sustainability Matters has utilized social media to connect with millions worldwide, expanding far beyond its Virginia roots. Ambassador Kenny Barnes creates videos to engage and inspire audiences with practical tips on reducing waste and adopting eco-friendly habits.
His content also highlights native Virginia plants and the powerful role they play in supporting local ecosystems. Even a single native plant on your balcony can help support pollinators and biodiversity.
Making Trash Bloom
Staying true to its mission of bringing sustainability to unexpected places, Sustainability Matters launched Making Trash Bloom, an initiative that transforms landfills into thriving habitats. By planting native species that can flourish in these environments, the project provides essential resources to support both pollinators and the broader ecosystem.
By restoring “dead” land, the program reduces erosion and supports healthy, biodiverse ecosystems. The initiative has already expanded across numerous Virginia counties and is beginning to gain momentum in other states.
Building on that success, the organization introduced Making History Bloom, which began with restoring a 45-mile stretch of abandoned railroad in Northern Virginia. Now a popular trail, the area has been revitalized by removing invasive species and planting native plants. The program continues to grow, restoring historic sites across the Southeastern U.S. through ecological conservation.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Andrea Grimsey, executive director of Sustainability Matters, believes the journey toward a healthier planet starts with individual action.
“If I could tell people one thing about sustainability, it would be that what we do today makes a difference — in what future generations will experience and how healthy the planet will be for them, their children and all the animals we share this beautiful earth with,” McGimsey said.
To help inspire and educate future environmental leaders, Sustainability Matters launched EcologiGALS, a summer program that addresses the underrepresentation of women in conservation and environmental science. The program offers hands-on fieldwork, involvement in environmental projects and mentorship from women leaders in the field.
Join the Fight
Sustainability Matters offers a wide range of workshops and programs, both in person and online, that provide people with the tools and knowledge they need to make meaningful, practical changes in their everyday lives.
By making a monthly donation, you can be a part of Sustainability Matters’ membership program. Your support helps both the organization, and the planet thrive. As a member, you’ll gain access to exclusive events, special discounts on workshops and a community of individuals dedicated to environmental sustainability.
The road to a sustainable future may be long, but Sustainability Matters proves that small, everyday actions can make a big impact. Whether it’s planting a native flower, picking up a single banana instead of a bunch or deciding against that tempting new outfit, everyone can be part of the movement.
To learn more about Sustainability Matters and find volunteer opportunities, visit its website here. Or buy and sport its merch.
