Clean air

Meetings are free and open to the public.

The North Texas Renewable Energy Group Meeting topic is "Geothermal Energy Development in Texas," presented by Maria Richards, Southern Methodist University Geothermal Lab Coordinator.This is a presentation about generating electricity through the use of geothermal energy in Texas, not a discussion of ground-source heat-pumps or air conditioning.

The North Texas Renewable Energy Group Meeting topic is "Solar Photovoltaics in the 21st Century - An in-depth look at solar electricity ... so far..." Jim Duncan, founder of NTREG, will present a brief history of photovoltaics (solar electricity); compare different photovoltaic technologies; cover emerging technologies; and discuss the return on investment vs. payback, federal investment tax credit and grants. Free.

Event hosted by Stop the Frack Attack, a coalition of concerned citizens and groups seeking to protect their health and their families from the dangers of gas drilling. More details TBA.

Former mayor of Austin Will Wynn will speak at the first of a four-part series: "Business Case for Sustainability." Hosted by Earth NT. Cost: $20. Contact: b.oquinn@urbanstrategiestx.com.

Plano community gardeners share their experience. Free.

The Dallas Plan Commission is hosting a public hearing before it votes on whether to allow new gas drilling permits submitted by Trinity East to drill on Dallas parkland. Environmental groups, including Dallas Residents at Risk, are urging the public to voice their concerns about gas drilling at the meeting.

Town hall with Rep. Rafael Anchia of Dallas (Sunset Advisory Committee) and Rep. Jim Keffer of Eastland (Energy Resources Committee) where you can voice opinions on the PUC and the Railroad Commission, regarding tar sands, fracking, etc. On Dec.19, testimony will be heard at the Capitol on Sunset* of above-mentioned agencies. This event is sponsored by the Dallas and Fort Worth Sierra Clubs, Public Citizen and others.

*Sunset of an agency deals with all aspects of an agency, how it does business with the public and private sector--even whether the entity as we know it should continue. This process only happens once every seven years.

Held Mondays Jan. 28-March 4. Learn practical best green living practices. Hear from experts in the field, view award-winning films, and meet local environmentalists. Volunteer to share Plano’s message of sustainable lifestyles. All shades of green are welcome. Free.