Sustainability in Prisons Project

The Sustainability in Prisons Project is a partnership of the Washington State Department of Corrections and The Evergreen State College. Our mission is to bring science and nature into prisons. We conduct ecological research and conserve biodiversity by forging collaborations with scientists, offenders, prison staff, students, and community partners. Equally important, we help reduce the environmental, economic, and human costs of prisons by inspiring and informing sustainable practices.

Recognition and Awards

National Science Foundation

Former Evergreen Professor Nalini Nadkarni received the National Science Foundation’s Public Service Award for her work with the Sustainability in Prisons Project. She received the award in May at a dinner hosted by the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C.

LEED® — Gold Prison Campus

Coyote Ridge Corrections Center in Franklin County became the first prison in the world to have its entire campus designated LEED® — certified Gold by the U.S. Green Building Council.

Washington Correctional Association

The 2010 Education Award went to Evergreen Professor Nalini Nadkarni for her work with the Sustainability in Prisons Project.

Harvard University Innovation Award

Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government designated the project as “Bright Idea” to be shared with the public sector, nonprofits and universities. The program is administered by the Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation.