For Carrie Malfeo, a lifelong connection to nature has grown into a career focused on helping communities become more environmentally responsible and resilient.
Malfeo, the Village’s sustainability coordinator, said her interest began early, as she spent time outdoors and appreciated nature. That passion grew as a teen, when she became aware of environmental and ethical concerns.
“I was always more happy outside than inside,” Malfeo said. “That curiosity eventually turned into action and a desire to understand how everything is connected — people, the environment, and the choices that are made every day.”
Now in her sixth year, Malfeo advances local sustainability, building on a decade of planning and policy.
Park Forest’s sustainability work is guided by several foundational plans, including the 2012 Sustainability Plan and the Climate Action and Resilience Plan, which outlines a goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 26 percent below 2010 levels by 2025. The plan also emphasizes improving community resilience to climate-related challenges while enhancing quality of life.
Malfeo said the Village already had a strong foundation, including community gardens and environmental programs. Since then, she has expanded and strengthened these efforts.
Malfeo’s initiatives include improving the community garden, introducing a tool lending library, and supporting the Park Forest Environment Commission to expand events like the Sustainability Expo. She has also promoted renewable energy, such as solar installations and fleet EV charging stations.
In partnership with local organizations, the Village is also preparing to help launch a non-profit Roots & Vine Community food hub aimed at strengthening local food systems and improving access to fresh, locally sourced products.
Through a recent outreach grant, Malfeo connects households, especially low-income residents, with resources that can help lower household energy bills and increase enrollment in programs like home energy assessments and community solar.
“Part of the role is making sure people know these programs exist and understand how to use them,” Malfeo said. “Many of them can save money while also reducing environmental impact.”
While data for 2025 is still pending, Malfeo highlighted that the Village had achieved a 20 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, evidence of real progress from renewable energy initiatives and municipal aggregation programs.
Because a significant portion of emissions comes from residential and municipal energy use, Malfeo said the Village continues to prioritize energy efficiency and clean energy solutions.
Beyond policies and programs, Malfeo expressed the importance of community involvement in achieving long-term sustainability goals.
“I want to be a resource for residents,” Malfeo said. “There are so many opportunities out there to save energy, save money, and make a difference. Sustainability is really about understanding that individual actions add up to a larger impact.”
Through planning, partnerships, and public engagement, Park Forest positions itself as a community dedicated to environmental stewardship and long-term resilience.