Simply Sustainable Series
Methods
Editorial, Print, Photography
Context
Solo sophomore final project
Timeline
6 weeks
Sustainable Spots – Guidebook
In the first book, 'Sustainable Spots,' I utilized a multidisciplinary framework of photography and hand-bound print to create an optimistic guide to NYC’s sustainable economy.
I chose a Coptic-stitch binding to allow for a thick, durable spine that holds interactive location cards, encouraging users to engage physically with the content. By pairing my own photography and research with silly anecdotes and reviews, I aimed to make the 'climate fight' feel accessible and community-driven.
Sustainable Stuff – Activity Book
I also developed a second component to engage a younger audience, utilizing illustrations and interactive activities that personify everyday items to encourage sustainable swaps.
This saddle-stitched, softcover zine incentivizes eco-friendly practices at home by guiding users to find "Sustainable Stuff" through original drawings and humorous anecdotes organized by location.
By gamifying these lessons, the activity book empowers young people to become "sustainable superheroes," transforming complex environmental stewardship into digestible visual narratives.
Conclusion
How can design move a modern audience from climate anxiety toward active environmental responsibility?
This journey culminated in a moment of profound environmental optimism when I was selected to present at my school’s Climate Justice Club’s Earth Day Art Show. Standing among fellow activists and artists, I witnessed the true power of community-driven design. I had designed a set of additional cards for the series, some featuring my own recommendations, and others left intentionally blank.
Seeing community members engage with these cards was transformative. I watched as students and neighbors wrote and drew their own favorite spots on the empty cards, while others eagerly took a recommendation card to explore a new corner of the city. This exchange created a tangible sense of solidarity, proving that when we share our knowledge and resources, the "concrete jungle" feels a lot more like a thriving ecosystem.
This project has solidified my commitment to pursuing inclusive, research-driven design that not only informs but inspires a more sustainable and connected future.
About
Jordan's goal is to craft powerful designs that not only inform but also connect with audiences, making complex ideas more accessible and actions more impactful.
Outside of graphic design, she loves to take photos with her Fujifilm or her dad's Canon DSLRs. She has also recently been into mixing songs on Spotify and will take song requests to make you a playlist.