Navajo Nation EPA

The challenge: limited funding, remote areas and historical practice were shaping environmentally harmful garbage disposal among Navajo Nation communities, particularly among older generations. The goal: Navajo Nation EPA seeking to minimize illegal open dumping and trash burning by appealing to Navajo values. The solution: encourage waste disposal at local transfer stations. The concept leans into Navajo land, philosophy, and deep spiritual connection to the Diné Bizaad language. Hózhó is the idea of living in harmony with nature, adaptability, and balancing tradition with progress through visuals of natural beauty, ancestral wisdom and mother earth.

My Contribution

Creative strategy leadership and content tone guidance

Before

The original see-and-say execution was a "safe" approach that demonstrated the desired behavior in a text-heavy layout. Without a budget for a shoot and a prescribed scene, heavy photoshop trial and error delivered a banner that eventually checked the boxes but lacked emotional connection. A missed opportunity in catalyzing behavior change.

After

AI tools helped in crafting a visual with depth and cultural awareness, beautifully. The message focused on a warm, assuring mother earth figure bringing sensitivity and respect to a call for behavior change. Conceptually resonant, Navajo philosophy and culturally revered personal responsibility cue an environmentally protective approach to garbage disposal.

A 33.5" x 79.5" double-sided vertical banner and overhead 92.125" x 33" horizontal banner for Navajo Nation EPA outreach events and booth exhibits.

Client: The Navajo Nation EPA

Art Director/Creative Director: Stephanie Bogue

Permitting Council

CDC's Youth Risk Behavior Survey

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