Staff Profile: Titania Markland

Transportation Outreach Coordinator for Clean Air Council

I am Titania Markland, born and raised in Jamaica. Protecting the environment and native species within has always been near and dear to my heart. Growing up in Jamaica we experienced tropical storms and hurricanes on a regular basis. Humans contribute a tremendous amount to the changing climate resulting in more natural disasters. We could argue we are the reason for more superstorms and hurricanes; a memory that stays with me is when my family and friends experienced severe flooding, not only because of the storm but also due to blocked drains (clogged with plastics and other human debris).

During high school in Jamaica, I competed in track and field and earned a scholarship to the University of Minnesota. In college, I competed in Division 1 track and field while studying Environmental Science and Policy Management. After undergrad, I completed my Master’s Degree in Land and Atmospheric Science.

After graduating and moving to Philadelphia, I was determined to find a job and company culture where my colleagues shared my passion for environmental protection. After a few months I found the Clean Air Council, where I was given the opportunity to volunteer with the Council staff. Everyone was passionate about protecting the environment, atmosphere, and public health.

During the beginning of the pandemic, a position opened at the Council and I applied. I was excited to receive an email in early August 2020 stating that I was selected for the position. I’m currently on staff as a Transportation Outreach Coordinator, where I get to work directly with residents of Philadelphia to find alternative ways to commute throughout the city with the big aim of reducing transportation greenhouse gas emissions in the city.

We all have a role to play in protecting the environment. I enjoy working at the Council and learning of the different ways my colleagues are making an impact in different neighborhoods in Pennsylvania.