Ever wondered how your academic interests could intersect with sustainability? For Meaghan Wiggin '22, her studies in Civil Engineering (with a minor in Architectural Studies) serve as an important foundation for her role with the UNH Sustainability Institute. Currently, Meaghan works as a SIMAP intern, utilizing the carbon and nitrogen accounting platform developed here at UNH. As part of her internship, she maps the different scopes of emission on campus, by calculating and tracking the data. It’s a unique job that reflects her passion for sustainable design and engineering, and brings together her collective experiences as a student.
Meaghan Wiggin '22
Meaghan’s journey to her current role began in her early years of college. After taking several discovery courses that covered topics pertaining to sustainability, Meaghan became interested in learning more about how traditional systems—such as energy and construction—could be redesigned to become more efficient and environmentally-friendly. “Sustainability was a concept that I didn’t learn about until I came to UNH, as my high school didn’t offer any courses or clubs on the topic,” she said. “My awareness and passion on sustainability grew while taking courses early within my major, which lead me to want to become involved with the Sustainability Institute and continue to make personal lifestyle changes that contributed to a healthier overall environment.” She eventually took on an internship with SIMAP, which allowed her to gain hands-on experience analyzing the different energy expenditures at UNH.
Studying abroad in Scotland was also another impactful learning experience. During her time Heriot-Watt University, Meaghan was able to learn more about the innovative, sustainable approach to civil engineering that prevailed there. Returning to the US, she wanted to translate the passion and knowledge she’d gained from her experience by advancing sustainability within her field in the US. “Promoting public transportation, using coarse materials in roadways, and studying lifecycle analyses are opportunities for growth,” she said. “There are so many ways to make things sustainable, but we have to implement them first.”
Since graduating in fall 2022, Meaghan has continued with her SIMAP internship to analyze different scopes of emission from UNH’s construction projects. The bulk of her work focuses on the development of Spaulding Hall, where she measures the carbon emissions produced, and provides guidance to architects on which sustainable materials to use in its renovation. Meaghan also continues to build tracking systems for future interns to expand, with the intention of UNH being able to calculate all its emissions, including carbon and steel. It’s been an informative experience so far and continues to further Meaghan’s professional goals of working in sustainable architecture design. Looking back on her journey, the important foundations gained during her time at UNH contribute to her hopes for building a sustainable future.
