Last month’s Community Climate Discussion brought together an inspiring pair of local experts to talk about our Island’s solid waste challenges and opportunities — from recycling and food waste to composting and community action. The discussion, held at the Oak Bluffs Library as part of ongoing climate and sustainability efforts, highlighted not only the complexity of our waste stream but also the creativity and commitment Islanders bring to solving it.
Sakiko Isomichi shared insights on ecological thinking and community engagement. A Harvard-trained landscape architect and longtime advocate for sustainable systems, Sakiko works at the MV Commission’s Climate Resilience Planner where she locally to connects climate resilience, waste reduction, and landscape stewardship in ways that support both people and place.
Sophie Mazza brought energy and expertise on food waste solutions. A community food waste educator and longtime leader in composting initiatives, Sophie has been instrumental in pilot programs and emerging models to make food waste diversion more accessible and effective on Martha’s Vineyard.
The panel highlighted not only the challenges our community faces with waste but also the collaborative spirit and innovative thinking driving solutions. Residents left with practical takeaways and a deeper sense of how each of us can be part of creating a cleaner, more resilient waste system. Stay tuned for more community conversations like this — the Vineyard Way is one built by shared knowledge and collective action.
