Contact Us
Program Director: Kori Nielsen
For over seven years, Kori has supported businesses, educational institutions, and nonprofits along California’s central coast in achieving their sustainability goals, helping them exceed regulatory standards and implement best environmental practices. With a specialization in energy efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainability certifications, she has developed a robust portfolio of strategies that empower organizations to enhance their environmental performance. Starting off as a volunteer, Kori now now leads the Santa Barbara County Green Business Program and collaborates on various state-wide projects, leveraging her extensive experience to engage dynamically in a broad range of sustainability initiatives, quickly adapting to challenges and ensuring their success. Kori is a recipient of the 2022 AASHE Sustainability Award and holds several professional accreditations, including TRUE Advisor, LEED GA, and EcoDistricts AP.
Fun Fact: I have been skydiving, paragliding, and ziplining! Next up, parasailing and jet skiing!
Contact me at:
knielsen@environmentalin.com
(805) 729-3472
Northern County Intern: Ypatia Kondos
Ypatia Kondos, a Polymers & Coatings graduate student at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, has always been passionate about environmental consciousness & health. Her bachelor’s degree in Material Science & Engineering introduced her to the world of polymeric, hybrid & composite coatings, and their applications in bioengineering etc. Taking a gap year before Graduate school gave her the chance to explore fields of research & Industries of interest, Sustainability, Environmental Protection & Renewable Energy where most compelling. Being part of the interdisciplinary field of Polymers & Coatings, she soon realized the detrimental effects of mass production of earlier innovations (including conventional plastics, VOC’s, lead, asbestos etc.) on earth and society and felt responsible to make a positive impact. Her interests quickly shifted towards bioplastic synthesis - sustainable food packaging and other green compostable & biodegradable compositions with a series of applications. She is a volunteer for The Santa Barbara County Green Business Program, and her goal is to wholeheartedly support & properly inform local businesses regarding the significance and benefits of sustainability. She passionately supports green local businesses and is looking forward to assisting more local businesses towards their green transition.
Fun Fact: I am native Greek and just moved to Santa Barbara 3.5 years ago! Since then, I have travelled to Greece 9 times!
Contact me at:
hypatiakondos@gmail.com
(805) 717-9027
Goleta Interns: UCSB Gauchos Go Green
We work closely with Greek life organizations to help them achieve green certification for their chapter houses by conducting sustainability assessments, developing strategies, and implementing eco-friendly practices. This includes providing educational resources, training sessions, and collaborating with local sustainability experts to guide chapters in adopting energy-efficient solutions, waste reduction, and water conservation measures. We assist with the green certification application process and track progress, offering ongoing support. By promoting and celebrating green certification achievements, we foster a culture of sustainability within Greek life and encourage continuous improvement and the sharing of best practices. We have now expanded our effortts to help get more businesses certified in Isla Vista and the Goleta area. Learn more at: UCSB Gauchos Go Green
Contact us at: ucsbgauchosgogreen@gmail.com