Marshall Hinsley

Arborilogical Services' new Wylie headquarters is a model of green design, featuring solar panels, rainwater collection, and geothermal systems. Constructed with recycled materials, it saves energy and costs, while enhancing aesthetics with eco-friendly landscaping. Owner Steve Houser emphasizes sustainability and innovative design.

In 2015, despite a historic fracking ban reversal, Denton committed to 100% renewable energy by 2020, driven by environmentalism and economics. With municipally-owned utilities, Denton secures affordable renewable contracts. While a natural gas plant remains contentious, the plan aims for stability and lower rates, championed by engaged citizens.

Seedling Farm, led by Dr. Owen Lynch, was established to address South Dallas's food desert and job desert challenges. Located at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center, it distributes thousands of seedlings annually, fostering local agriculture and economic revival through partnerships and community involvement.

Dr. Stan Ingman has revived the "Sustainable Communities Review," a semiannual journal founded in 1997. Focused on global sustainability issues, it includes contributions from professionals and students on diverse topics. The journal aims to inspire better community practices and will continue under new leadership.

Dallas-based activist Yolonda Blue Horse, known for her environmental and indigenous rights activism, will receive the Justice Seeker of the Year award at the 2017 Peacemaker Awards Banquet on Nov. 30. Her efforts include founding the Society of Native Nations and leading protests against pipelines threatening tribal lands.

Downwinders at Risk's College of Constructive Hell-Raising in DFW, starting January 16, 2018, trains activists in social change strategies, historical context, and networking. Enrollment for 20 students is $200, with classes held bi-weekly at Meadows Conference Center, featuring veteran speakers and a focus on effective campaign initiation.

The Texas Climate Change Tour, hosted by Public Citizen, will stop in Dallas and Fort Worth on Nov. 8-9 to raise awareness about climate change impacts in Texas. Sponsored by local environmental groups, these free events include presentations on climate data, Q&A sessions, and advocate for political action.

The Unitarian Universalist Church of Oak Cliff installed four solar-powered lighting systems in their parking lot to align with their eco-friendly principles. This self-contained system is cost-effective, maintenance-free, and supports their commitment to environmental justice, serving as a model for sustainable practices.

Aaron Powell, inspired by cargo bikes during a European vacation, founded Urban Tribe Cargo Bicycles in Denton to promote eco-friendly travel. He developed a model called the Gatherer, ideal for families, and plans to expand the product line. Motivated by his daughter, Powell aims to make cargo bikes a common family transport option in the U.S.

The Newcomer’s Guide to Gardening in North Texas on Sept. 16 at Collin College features expert presentations to help new residents tackle North Texas gardening challenges. Nearly 300 participants from 31 states and ten countries have registered, highlighting the event's success in addressing soil, pest, and water conservation issues.

The inaugural Climate Change Art Exhibition by Waco Friends of Peace/Climate highlights climate change issues through 30 regional artworks, aiming to educate and inspire emotional responses for climate action. The organization, active since 2002, combats anthropogenic climate change via education and activism, hosting events like this exhibition.

Vegan pop-up markets like V Market in DFW promote cruelty-free products, including plant-based skincare, homewares, and clothing. Co-founders Christina Bluford and Katie Remis aim to support vegan businesses while expanding local interest in ethical, sustainable shopping. Markets occur monthly at various locations in Dallas and beyond.