Current Projects

The “Pride Farm”

I’m working with colleagues in the Department of Geology, Environment, and Sustainability at Hofstra University to develop initiatives to contribute to sustainability and food security on campus and the local community. These initiatives include campus-based and community outreach activities supporting urban agriculture and environmentally friendly native horticulture collectively called the “Pride Farm” project. The goal is to expand research, teaching, and community education in urban agriculture and engage in nutritional outreach in the communities surrounding campus.

Evaluating residents’ participation and experience of Curbside Composting Program in NYC

This study examines participation in the DSNY Curbside Composting Program, exploring which NYC residents take part and the factors that enable, motivate, or prevent their involvement. We investigate residents' perceptions of the program’s benefits, their knowledge of composting, and how separating organic waste influences their relationship with food waste and food more broadly. By understanding these dynamics, we aim to assess the program’s sustainability, accessibility, and potential to foster deeper environmental engagement.

Assessing the opportunities and barriers of market digitalization for direct market farmers

This project investigates the impact of the widespread use of digital technologies for sales and marketing on direct-market farmers in California and New York. As the internet increasingly mediates interactions and transactions between producers, retailers, and consumers, digital technologies are becoming a prerequisite for farmers to participate in markets. Yet, many farmers lack resources or knowhow to access these technologies. This study aims to understand the opportunities and challenges of adopting digital sales and marketing tools and whether they close or widen disparities among direct-market farmers.