Julie Thibodeaux

A state district judge ordered Blue Star Recycling to remove a five-story pile of asphalt shingles near Marsha Jackson's home within 90 days. Despite zoning law claims, Blue Star agreed to close under pressure. Jackson suffered from the pollution, and local activists celebrated the decision.

Earth Day celebrations in North Texas span April weekends with events like Arlington's River Legacy Earth Day, Lewisville's ColorPalooza, and Dallas's Oak Cliff Earth Day. Activities include nature walks, art, environmental education, and more. EarthX film festival and eco expo feature screenings and exhibits promoting environmental awareness.

Sustainability advocates from DFW gathered at UTA to launch the Regional Center of Expertise North Texas. The center, led by Meghna Tare, aims to advance sustainable education without implementing policies and will focus on the UN’s goals in education, health, and sustainable communities. Five committees will guide its initiatives.

A Dallas nonprofit's third annual Conservation Cup enlisted teens from local schools to clean Harry Moss Park. They competed to collect the most trash, highlighting the park's litter problem exacerbated by flooding. Conrad High won, emphasizing ongoing cleanup efforts and fostering youth's environmental engagement.

Brenda Armstrong launched the Lone Star Broads, the first Texas chapter of Great Old Broads for Wilderness, aiming to preserve wild spaces through inclusive advocacy and events. The group, led by Armstrong, an outdoor enthusiast, welcomes all ages and genders, focusing on humor and unity in conservation.

Bill Neukranz, an engineer from Plano and member of the North Texas Renewable Energy Group, passed away at 64. Known for cutting his energy cost by half, he shared insights through his presentations and home tours. Neukranz emphasized practical energy-saving steps and was a notable advocate for economic-conscious sustainability.

Dallas activists Corey Troiani and Olinka Green traveled to Washington D.C. to urge EPA action on the Lane Plating Superfund Site. The site, contaminated with toxic metals, faces cleanup delays. Activists seek improved communication and prompt EPA action, as the responsible company is defunct.

The Arlington City Council is revising its gas drilling ordinance for the first time in nearly a decade, but activists claim it inadequately protects residents. Despite some improvements in noise reduction and notification processes, concerns persist about the 600-foot setback waivers and leniency towards gas drillers.

Lt. Gen. Russel Honoré, a renowned emergency preparedness expert, toured toxic sites in Dallas and urged for collaboration in environmental justice efforts. Emphasizing teamwork, he criticized polluters and praised North Texas's potential to address environmental wrongs, highlighting the importance of recognizing problems to create jobs and opportunities.

A regional coalition uniting North Texas sustainability advocates has been approved by the UN. Spearheaded by Meghna Tare, the group focuses on education, health, and sustainable communities, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Dr. Katharine Hayhoe, a renowned climate scientist, will headline the sold-out North Texas Climate Change Symposium on Feb. 4 in Dallas. Hosted by the city and the Dallas Bar Association Environmental Law Section, the event will feature climate action plan updates and discussions on public health, economy, and political strategies.

Join us at Oak Cliff Earth Day, April 14, 2019, for a grassroots green festival featuring entertainment, eco-education, and vendors. Vendor space ($30-$55) and sponsorships (starting at $100) are available. Register by March 19 for bonuses. Contact Lybo Buchanan for vendor space and Wendel Withrow for sponsorship.