the greenest fern is a sustainable design consulting firm focused on the idea and practice of sustainability, resiliency, environmental justice and biophilia. It seeks to design healthier, more productive and more welcoming spaces while promoting environmental protection, economic development and social equity. the greenest fern focuses on sustainable design and urbanization and the connection between the two realms.
At it's core the greenest fern hopes to create awareness about sustainable design within our urban spaces, design sustainable environments and establish a vibrant platform for educating those interested in environmental justice and sustainable design.
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Fernando Ortiz Baez
Principal/
Sustainable Designer
the greenest fern was established by Fernando Ortiz Baez a first-generation, Dominican-American, native New Yorker. Fernando was born in Brooklyn but raised in the South Bronx. Among his interest are scouting out sustainable design and urban projects throughout New York City and promoting a more sustainable lifestyle. Fernando hopes to use his experience, knowledge and passion to bring environmental justice, sustainability and resiliency to communities all across NYC and the Dominican Republic.
Ortiz is greatly invested in the revitalization and development of the South Bronx and the Dominican Republic and is currently serving as the Upper Manhattan & Bronx Borough Director for Government & Community Relations at the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC).
Education:
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Master of Science: Sustainability Management
Columbia University, 2019
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Master of Design Studies: Sustainable Design
Boston Architectural College, 2016
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Bachelor of Arts: Critical and Visual Studies; Sustainability Minor
Pratt Institute, 2014
Experience:
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Lecturer; Sustainability Management Columbia University in the City of New York 2022- Present
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Assistant Vice President; Government & Community Relations New York City Economic Development Corporation 2021-Present
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Community Engagement Associate Planner
NYC City Planning- Bronx Office
2020-2021
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Climate and Resiliency Organizer
THE POINT CDC
2018-2020
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Organic Outreach Graduate Intern
NYC Sanitation- Bureau of Recycling & Sustainability
2018
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Sustainability and Development Intern
NYC Parks & Recreation
2015-2016
Study Abroad:
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Dominican Republic: Caribbean and Environmental Studies
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Malta: Green Residential Remodeling and Renovation
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Israel/Jordan/Palestine/Syria: Regional Environmental Sustainability & Conflict Resolution
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Chile: Sustainable Development
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Puerto Rico: Food Sovereignty and Environmental Justice
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Montana- Crow Native American Tribe: Social & Environmental Justice in Tribal Nations
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Chicago: Robbins Industrial Site- Resilient and Sustainable Development