Welcome! We are a very passionate, grassroots group looking forward to accomplishing our purpose, one landscape at a time. Conserving. Protecting. And restoring biodiversity in an effort to revitalize our ecosystems that will sustain our existence and drawdown the legacy carbon overheating the planet.
Board of Directors
NOREEN WISE
Virginia
Founder & Chair of the Board
Noreen is a dynamic conservationist dedicated to driving the restoration of biodiversity and achieving the ambitious global 30X30 target. With a rich background in climate journalism, she has been at the forefront of promoting sustainable practices for over 25 years, collaborating with local and global leaders to inspire impactful climate action.
Her transformative experience living sustainably in Ottawa during the pandemic allowed her to immerse herself in the city’s Climate Action Agenda, learning from sustainability pioneers who have shaped eco-friendly initiatives since 1985. This unique insight fuels her mission to accelerate the transition to a carbon-neutral culture.
For the past nine years, Noreen has been a passionate advocate for public education on sustainability and biodiversity. Since 2021, she has championed carbon drawdown through innovative regenerative agriculture practices and enhanced biodiversity in suburban landscapes. Noreen’s unwavering commitment and expertise position her as a powerful ally for sponsors and partners looking to make a meaningful impact in the realms of conservation, carbon drawdown, and sustainability.
RENISE LERESCHE
Washington, D.C.
Director of Development
From an early age, Renise was inspired by her parents’ commitment to community and authenticity. Her mother’s dedication to volunteerism and her father’s passion for birdwatching, exemplified through his involvement with The Audubon Society, laid a strong foundation for her own values.
As a Business Development Manager, Renise has successfully forged strategic partnerships and identified emerging markets for various brands, each distinguished by their exceptional quality, service, and ethical practices. Her passion for sustainability and support for purpose-driven companies is central to her professional ethos.
Renise is deeply committed to community service, channeling her energy into grassroots organizing and volunteer initiatives that enhance the quality of life in her community. Although she has called Virginia home for 35 years, including two formative years during her youth, her journey has taken her across the country. She returned to Virginia to marry her best friend’s brother, and together they are raising three sons alongside their beloved dogs.
In her free time, Renise finds joy in outdoor activities, whether it’s gardening, hiking, or immersing herself in a good book. Her life is driven by a dedication to fostering connections—both within her family and her community.
MALA PERSAUD
Washington, D.C.
Director of Media & Communications
MALA PERSAUD, Owner of TRACE, The Zero Waste Store in Vienna, VA, serves on the Town of Vienna’s Conservation and Sustainability Commission. Mala is a former journalist turned communications consultant and sustainability entrepreneur. Transitioning from a career in network journalism where she was based in London for more than a decade, Mala then applied her skills and global perspective to help a range of global health, development and sustainability shape their communications strategies. Driven by a lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship, in 2019, Mala took a step into entrepreneurship, founding Trace: The Zero Waste Store in Vienna, VA. At Trace, Mala has created a destination for eco-conscious consumers, with more than 150 package-free foods, soaps, detergents and personal care items, in addition to hundreds of eco-friendly products. Trace’s mission is to champion ethical consumption and provide a platform for community education. Mala has just received the Fairfax County Environmental Excellence Award.
PAT CASSIDY
Washington, D.C.
Director of Environmental Education
Pat Cassidy is the founder of The Change Loudoun Project, a transformative initiative dedicated to advancing solar energy and environmental sustainability in Loudoun County and beyond. As a passionate advocate for clean energy, Pat is committed to fostering a sustainable future through education and community engagement.
Through The Change Loudoun Project, Pat raises awareness about the myriad benefits of solar energy, emphasizing its positive impacts on the environment, economy, and public health. His expertise enables him to articulate how individuals and communities can transition to renewable energy sources effectively.
Pat’s advocacy journey has equipped him with valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities within the clean energy landscape. He shares his experiences and practical strategies to empower others to get involved in promoting sustainable practices in their own neighborhoods. With a focus on collaboration and innovation, Pat Cassidy is leading the charge toward a greener, more resilient future for all.
SHAB DUDLEY
Charlottesville, VA
Director of Finance
Shab has spent her 23 year career in finance, managing hundreds of complex group accounts while operating under very tight deadlines and stress conditions. Crisis management is an integral part of Shab’s career. Her diplomacy skills and professionalism catapulted her into leadership positions at various junctures throughout her tenure.
Climate Action NOW (CAN) 