Retreating glaciers, rising sea levels—certain environmental crises receive a lot of attention. But one student group at HMS is raising awareness about an equally critical concern: the effects of poor air quality, exposure to toxins and wasteful habits on our health.
Students for Environmental Awareness in Medicine (SEAM) was formed to bring a physician’s perspective to environmental issues and how they affect human health. By promoting sustainable practices among students, faculty and staff at HMS, the group has become an ally in Harvard’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Harvard Office for Sustainability has taken notice of their efforts. Three members of SEAM—Erin Bettendorf, Devan Darby and Kelsey Leonard-Smith—received Harvard Green Carpet Awards for their contributions to the Harvard sustainability effort, and the group has just received a Harvard sustainability grant for the installation of a more user-friendly, intuitive waste disposal system in the Vanderbilt Hall kitchens to encourage proper recycling habits.
Recently, SEAM collaborated with HMS facilities to investigate alternatives to bottled water served in the TMEC, the delivery and removal of which leaves a big carbon footprint. Members of SEAM highlighted another concern: bottled water, unlike Boston city water, does not contain fluoride, so those who drink it exclusively may miss out on an important health benefit. Furthermore, bottled water is not as strictly regulated as municipal water.
Together with the occupants of the TMEC, SEAM and Facilities determined that a filtered tap water station would best reduce the use of bottled water. The station will soon be installed on the second floor.
SEAM has also worked with Facilities to encourage bicycle commuting by installing air pumps in bicycle cages and distributing maps that show the locations of showers around campus.
Current projects include obtaining Leaf 1 Green Office Certification for all the society headquarters in the TMEC. SEAM is also creating a Green Student Orientation for incoming medical and dental students this fall, which will include such events as a green living workshop and a bicycle registration drive.
