Wilma Subra facts for kids

Wilma Subra is an amazing American scientist who was born in 1943. She is known for her important work in environmental health. This means she helps people and the planet by studying how chemicals and pollution affect our health and the world around us. Wilma Subra leads her own company, called the Subra Company, which is a special firm that gives advice on environmental issues.

Wilma grew up in Morgan City, Louisiana, and also in a nearby place called Bayou Vista. Her dad was a chemist, just like she became, and her grandpa was an oyster fisherman. This background likely helped her understand the environment from a young age.

Wilma's Education and Early Career

Wilma Subra went to the University of Southwestern Louisiana in Lafayette. She studied microbiology and chemistry, earning her first degree in 1965. Just one year later, in 1966, she earned her master's degree.

After finishing her studies, Wilma worked for the Gulf South Research Institute from 1967 to 1981. This experience helped her prepare for her big step: starting her own company.

Starting the Subra Company

In May 1981, Wilma Subra decided to create her own business, the Subra Company. She started this company to help people who were having problems because of issues related to environmental health. This often meant helping communities understand and deal with pollution or other dangers in their local environment.

Working with Government and Other Groups

Wilma Subra has also worked with important government groups to help protect the environment.

Helping the EPA

She spent seven years as the vice-chair of a group called the National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology. This group advises the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which is a big government agency that works to protect human health and the environment.

Wilma also spent six years on the EPA's National Environmental Justice Advisory Council. This council focuses on making sure that all people, no matter where they live or how much money they have, are treated fairly when it comes to environmental rules and policies.

She also served for five years on a national advisory committee for the US Representative to the Commission for Environmental Cooperation. This group works on environmental issues that cross borders between countries.

Appearing in a Documentary

Wilma Subra's important work was even featured in a movie! She appeared in a 2010 documentary called Gasland. This shows how recognized and respected she is for her knowledge and efforts in environmental protection.

Awards and Recognition

Wilma Subra has received several awards for her dedication and hard work in environmental science.

• 1999 MacArthur Fellows Program
• 2004 Volvo for Life Award finalist
• 2011 Global Exchange Human Rights Awards Honoree