Scripps’ annual Sustainability Fair brings together student leaders across The Claremont Colleges for a day of information, resources, and fun devoted to advancing sustainable practices on and off campus.
Scripps 2026 Sustainability Fair
By Tess Miller ’27
Whether already involved in sustainability efforts or simply looking for fun, students across The Claremont Colleges gathered on Bowling Green this April for Scripps’ 14th Annual Sustainability Fair. Hosted by the Department of Sustainability, the fair featured 20 booths showcasing sustainability efforts on campus, fresh juice made with fruits grown on campus, a Scripps Free Closet clothing swap, a live acapella performance, and a DJ.
Abigail Balais, Scripps’ sustainability coordinator, says that the fair is crucial to the Scripps community. “Putting on this event 14 years in a row is incredible. I’m proud and happy to be continuing an important legacy at Scripps. We were so excited to host another fair and strengthen our process.”
Abigail Balais (far right), Scripps’ sustainability coordinator, and fair interns
Balais is new to Scripps, but her commitment to her field is deep.
“When I was a kid, my dad always took us on hikes, and I remember not wanting to go. I wasn’t the archetype,” she says. “But I cared a lot about the environment, and that’s what called to me: I wanted to have a tangible impact. I was lucky to find this position because I have both direct and indirect influence on sustainability. I feel really fulfilled.”
There’s 100 percent a spot in sustainability for you somewhere at the 5Cs
Sustainability led by students, for students
Sustainability interns Tavi Memoli ’29 and Xanthe McGrath ’29 helped plan the fair. For Memoli, her love for the outdoors and nature is the foundation for her involvement in sustainability in college.
Scripps’ sustainability interns: (Top) Chloe Eshagh ’28 and Isobel McDonald ’28 (Bottom) Xanthe McGrath ’29 and Tavi Memoli ’29
“Growing up, I was always an outdoorsy person. That’s what got me involved in sustainability. I know that whatever I end up doing during college and for my career, I want it to make a positive impact,” says Memoli.
McGrath also loved nature from a young age and feels the pressing need to be involved in sustainability. “I came from a family that valued the environment and its beauty. My mom lives on an island, so climate change is always a thought in the back of my mind,” she explains. “It’s not a choice—you have to be involved. There’s so much urgency.”
Scripps’ Green Bike program loans bikes to students throughout the academic year
Memoli emphasizes the purpose of the fair is to get others involved in different sustainable initiatives at The Claremont Colleges. To help, Memoli writes Scripps’ monthly Susty Scoop newsletter, which “touches on all facets of sustainability, so people can stay in the know about what’s going on around campus, across the 5Cs, and even in the local Claremont area,” she explains.
Balais encourages students to get involved, using the fair as a jumping-off point.
“Keep in touch with the clubs that interest you. Sign up using their forms. RSVP to meetings. Scan their QR codes. Follow them on social media,” she says. “There’s 100 percent a spot in sustainability for you somewhere at the 5Cs!”
For more information on sustainability initiatives at Scripps, click here!