Craytor believes that certain neglected communities, such as the South Bronx, New Orleans and Newark, have long been overburdened by environmental and economic disparity. These communities will suffer the most from the impact of climate change. Poverty, unemployment, health disparities and environmental burdens will be exacerbated if solutions to our climate crisis are not identified and implemented.

Craytor will discuss how green “environmental justice solutions” are necessary to change this dire scenario, and how the process must start within communities with the greatest need. She will share insights into projects where green fabrication, green roofs, and green-collar job training provide alternatives to the current polluting economy. These green technologies offer hope, not only for addressing our climate crisis, but also for eradicating poverty. 

Sustainable South Bronx promotes environmental justice solutions through innovative, economically sustainable projects informed by community need. Craytor joined SSBx in 2006 and has overseen initiatives to increase the organization’s effectiveness within the community.

Previously, Craytor was senior planner for economic development at the Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation, consultants to the office of Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrion, Jr.  Craytor, who holds a master’s degree in city and regional planning and a bachelor’s degree in planning and public policy and management, was the first to work in this position. The post was created in response to the growing importance of long-term sustainability concerns in the borough’s economic development projects.