In 2012, Naolo completed a Master’s in Environment and led a two-year research project exploring how life cycle assessment (LCA) results could be used to communicate the environmental and social impacts of everyday consumer products. In 2019, he founded the Black Environmental Initiative (BEI) to build vital social infrastructure that empowers Black communities to become champions of environmental protection—starting with restoring their agency and leadership in this space. Since then, Naolo has launched multiple programs, trained dozens of young environmental justice leaders, and spoken at numerous conferences and in the media. Naolo doesn’t necessarily see himself as an environmentalist—he sees himself as a human being who loves nature and wants to protect it. His vision is rooted in the belief that “green people” shouldn't fit a single mold—there is no one race, style, or identity that defines environmentalism. If we’re to transform how society relates to nature, we need environmental champions of all kinds. After all, how we treat nature often mirrors how we treat one another—and vice versa. Naolo also serves as a Program Director at a family foundation, where he supports underfunded communities and grassroots groups working toward systemic change.