Julie Thibodeaux

The Texas Electric Transportation Resources Alliance invites environmentalists to attend the TCEQ hearing on the Texas Volkswagen Settlement Plan in Arlington, addressing over $200 million from the VW emissions scandal. A pre-hearing conference call will be held on Sept. 12 at 7 p.m. to prepare attendees.

Native plant sales in North Texas enrich fall gardening calendars, promoting native plants that thrive in the Texas heat and support local wildlife. The Native Plant Society of Texas, established in 1981, leads these efforts, with various Texas chapters hosting sales events throughout September and October.

Voting for the 7th annual Green Source DFW Sustainable Leadership Awards runs until Sept. 30. Categories celebrate North Texas' green movement contributions. Results announced on Nov. 15, chosen by judges from top three finalists in each category. Vote daily. For inquiries, contact Julie@GreenSourceDFW.org.

The Texas Campaign for the Environment seeks volunteers for a waste audit of Dallas businesses, involving sorting and analyzing trash to aid recycling program expansion. The project is from September 26 to October 6, funded by a Meadows Foundation grant, offering experience in sustainable practices and potential Green Business Certification. Interested parties can apply online.

Kroger announced it is suspending ties to Mahard Egg Farm, based in Prosper in Collin County, after People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals released video footage showing hens caged with dead hens that had apparently died of heatstroke and hens beaten to death at one of its facilities.

The Botanical Research Institute of Texas is unveiling the George C. and Sue W. Sumner Molecular and Structural Laboratory in Fort Worth to enhance plant conservation efforts. The facility will enable DNA analysis of plants, supporting research on plant relationships, rarity, and conservation by BRIT, universities, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

Rolland, a Dallas company, has introduced the Planet Vault, an eco-friendly line of safes made from 97% recycled materials including plastic, ceramics, and steel. Designed by Miguel Alarcon, these lighter, innovative safes provide security by using materials that frustrate burglars and weigh less, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.

The Arlington Conservation Council highlighted light pollution at Arlington’s 4th of July Parade, earning Best Non-Commercial Float for their "Turn on the Night" entry. Using scavenged materials, they aimed to promote the Dark Sky movement, advocating for reduced artificial lighting to preserve night skies and benefit the environment.

Voting for the Green Source DFW Sustainable Leadership Awards will start soon after the digital ballot is ready. The awards include six nomination categories, with finalists selected by public vote and winners chosen by a North Texas green community panel. The winners will be announced on November 15, 2018.

Finalists for the 2018 Green Source DFW Sustainable Leadership Awards were announced after public voting ended on Sept. 30. A panel will select winners in each category, to be revealed on Nov. 15 at the Dallas Arboretum event. Sponsorships remain available.

Park advocates are divided over a proposed Fort Worth Botanic Garden admission fee aimed at addressing $15 million in unmet repairs and operational needs. Although some support it, others argue it could exclude disadvantaged residents. Alternatives, including free passes and membership options, are under consideration to ensure accessibility.

Dallas City Council voted unanimously to mandate recycling access for all multi-family complexes by 2020, catching up with Fort Worth’s 2014 policy. Advocates, backed by grassroots support, praised the decision, emphasizing equality in city services and aiming to extend recycling standards to businesses.