Julie Thibodeaux

A hearing in Midland will discuss Waste Control Specialists' proposal to store high-level radioactive waste in West Texas. Environmentalists strongly oppose this, citing safety risks and potential permanence of the site. Concerns include the transport of waste through urban areas and potential environmental impacts.

Nature-themed art exhibits in North Texas offer a respite from summer heat, showcasing works inspired by nature. Highlights include Claude Monet at Kimbell, Frank X. Tolbert's "Texas Birds," Liz Ward's Mississippi River drawings, Helen Altman's conceptual art at Talley Dunn Gallery, and Natasha Bowdoin's botanical installations.

Habitat Suites in Austin, Texas, ranks fourth on Expedia's Top Ten Eco-Friendly Stays list. The solar-powered hotel, owned by Eduardo Longoria, features organic amenities, eco-friendly practices, and offers a vegetarian and vegan breakfast. Rates are moderate, and each suite includes organic cotton bedding and eco-friendly toiletries.

Severe storms in North Texas toppled hundreds of trees, causing power outages and a crane collapse that killed a Dallas resident. The Texas Trees Foundation emphasizes proper tree planting and care to prevent storm damage, advising certified arborists for maintenance. Trees enhance community health and offer numerous benefits.

The Healthy Hippie in Watauga, led by Kelli Myatt, introduces the Eco Club to promote sustainable living. For a fee, members gain access to compost and recycling services and workshops. Myatt envisions expanding the venue and becoming the first all-vegetarian vendor at the Texas State Fair.

Fort Worth painter Jim Woodson, inspired by the 'magic' of nature, showcases his work in "Time Enfolded" at Valley House Gallery, Dallas, until June 8. His 33-piece exhibit reflects the enchanting high desert landscape of New Mexico, where he connects his internal experiences with the external world.

GoodWork, an eco-conscious coworking space in Dallas, promotes its sunny brand through a rooftop billboard and community outreach. Renovated by Gary Olp, the space offers eco-friendly features, supports solar power, and hosts creative professionals. It thrives on networking and a strong social media presence.

Groundwork Dallas and Trinity Park Conservancy host a canoe clean-up on the Elm Fork of the Trinity River on June 9. The Environmental League of Dallas holds the Trash Dash 5K on May 11 at Harry Moss Park, where runners either exercise or drop litter at stations along the route.

Dallas seeks resident input for its Climate Action Plan, with public meetings through May 9 and an online survey until May 23. The city aims for an inclusive, equitable plan focusing on emission reductions and climate impact mitigation, prioritizing community concerns, especially from vulnerable groups.

EarthX, founded by Dallas philanthropist Trammell S. Crow, is a large Earth Day festival held April 26-28 at Fair Park, Dallas. It features eco-exhibitors, conferences, the EarthxFilm festival, the Tiny House Village, the Vegan Village, and new additions like the EarthX app and EarthxLeague.

DFW is competing globally in the iNaturalist City Nature Challenge April 26-29, observing wildlife. Led by biologist Sam Kieschnick, participants photograph species in North Texas, with top observations contributing to the DFW count. iNaturalist data helps track species and ecosystem health, engaging amateur naturalists worldwide.

Fort Worth launched a pilot residential composting program, a North Texas first. For an annual $20 fee, residents receive composting supplies and access to collection sites. The initiative aims to reduce landfill waste and methane emissions while creating valuable gardening products. Over 200 participants joined in the first week.