Our History
How the Sustainability in Prisons Project Began
The Sustainability in Prisons Project (SPP) began in 2003 as a small collaboration between faculty at The Evergreen State College and staff at the Washington State Department of Corrections. What started as a classroom idea quickly grew into hands-on sustainability programs inside prisons.
From the beginning, the goal was simple: bring science, education, and environmental stewardship into correctional facilities in ways that benefit incarcerated people, staff, and the broader community.
2003–2005
Early Foundations
SPP began with pilot programs focused on environmental education and sustainable practices. Early efforts showed that incarcerated people were eager to learn scientific skills and contribute positively to their communities.
These initial successes demonstrated that sustainability programs could thrive in correctional settings and laid the groundwork for long-term collaboration between corrections, higher education, and community partners.
1
2
2006–2010
Growing Programs & Partnerships
As interest grew, SPP expanded into additional Washington state prisons. Programs began to include:
- Gardening and food production
- Composting and waste reduction
- Environmental science education
- Conservation and habitat restoration
Partnerships with scientists, nonprofits, and community organizations became essential, helping programs grow in scale and impact.
2011–2015
Statewide Expansion
During this period, SPP became a recognized statewide program. More facilities joined, and programs became more structured and diverse. Conservation initiatives, including species recovery and pollinator projects, gained national attention.
SPP also expanded its educational offerings, allowing incarcerated participants to earn college credit and gain real-world skills.
3
4
2016–2020
Strengthening Impact
By this time, SPP programs were active in nearly every Washington state prison. The focus shifted toward:
- Deepening educational outcomes
- Strengthening community partnerships
- Strengthening community partnerships
Programs consistently demonstrated benefits for environmental health, institutional culture, and individual growth.
2016–2025
What We’re Up to Now
During this period, SPP became a recognized statewide program. More facilities joined, and programs became more structured and diverse. Conservation initiatives, including species recovery and pollinator projects, gained national attention.
SPP also expanded its educational offerings, allowing incarcerated participants to earn college credit and gain real-world skills.
5
6
2026 - Present
Looking to the Future
By this time, SPP programs were active in nearly every Washington state prison. The focus shifted toward:
- Deepening educational outcomes
- Strengthening community partnerships
- Measuring environmental and social impact
Programs consistently demonstrated benefits for environmental health, institutional culture, and individual growth.
