
Dow Sustainability Fellowship
Habitat for Humanity Sustainable Housing
University of Michigan, Graham Sustainability Institute
Team Members: Lauren Pettinga, Devon Gingrich, Chen Lyu, Maryam Syed
Project Partner: Habitat for Humanity
Project Funder: Dow Corporate
Project Narrative
As a fellow with the Dow Sustainability Fellowship, I collaborated with a diverse team
of graduate students on a real-world project with Habitat for Humanity, focusing on
the impacts of sustainable home design. This project encompasses various aspects,
including environmental indicators, the health and well-being of homeowners, and
communities, financial sustainability in construction and maintenance, and the
long-term benefits of sustainable home design.
Enhancing Sustainable Construction Practices
Through this initiative, my team engaged with construction professionals, project
managers, and other team members influencing Habitat for Humanity’s efforts in
climate zones 2 and 3. This experience addresses current sustainability
challenges, evaluates the status of sustainable construction across different
states, and explores the path toward net-zero housing. It has provided me with
valuable insights into the complexities and achievements of advancing towards a
sustainable future.






