Arielle Smith is a Master's of Science graduate candidate at University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS) and is a member of the Informal Sustainability Lab. She was raised in metro-Detroit and holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies and Sustainability from Michigan State University. Prior to her time at SEAS, she worked in a variety of environmental education roles where she developed and executed strategies for communicating sustainability knowledge to diverse audiences. She is also the founder of Vintagebug, a small business that promotes the reduction of textile waste through restoring and selling secondhand and vintage apparel. 

Driven by the potential of circular economy approaches to reduce waste and enhance sustainability, Arielle seeks to develop actionable knowledge that directly benefits communities. Her current studies focus on advancing circular economy practices in response to the growing demand for critical minerals and the need for just transitions. A key interest lies in using systems thinking to address the unintended consequences of resource extraction and exploitation, particularly as the United States develops its strategy to meet critical and rare earth mineral demands.

In addition to her academic work, Arielle is developing a campus-wide electronic waste recycling initiative. This project aims to boost circular economy practices, raise awareness about the implications of improper disposal, and reduce electronic waste.