Advocacy

Over the past decade, Texas reduced environmental protection funding by 35% despite increased industrial activity. This ranks Texas second among 30 states in funding cuts, which occurred as state revenue grew. The Environmental Integrity Project highlights that cuts coincide with federal efforts to shift more environmental oversight to states.

While the nation grapples with the pandemic and racial injustice protests, the Trump administration continues to roll back environmental protections, reversing over 60 rules since 2017. Key rollbacks include changes to emissions rules, wetland protections, and wildlife protections. Various resources track these changes, such as Harvard and Columbia Law Schools.

The Fort Worth Star-Telegram hired Haley Samsel as an environmental reporter with support from a $15,000 Anita Berry Martin Memorial Fund grant and Report for America. Samsel will cover environmental issues related to Fort Worth's rapid growth, addressing challenges like flash flooding and deforestation.

GSDFW's 50th Earth Day celebration moved online due to coronavirus. Features include interviews with Denis Hayes, local history, and green tips. Highlights cover reflections and Earth Day's evolution, plus digital activities like selfies, a performance by Montopolis, a reading of "The Giving Tree," and a new environmental podcast.

On April 22, 1970, to honor Earth Day, Fort Worth teen Allen Gartner commuted to school on a unicycle instead of his Cadillac. He joined classmates using alternative transport methods. Gartner's effort, captured in a yearbook photo, left a lasting impression, inspiring a lifelong environmental commitment.

Join our virtual Earth Day celebration by sharing selfies and videos as many events are canceled. Submit content with #GSDFWEarthDay on Facebook, expressing good wishes, green tips, or eco-friendly activities. Videos should be under 10 minutes and include your name and city. Email submissions to Julie@GreenSourceDFW.org.

A North Texas social justice group is organizing buses for Dallas delegates to join the national Poor People’s Campaign march in D.C. on June 20. The campaign addresses systemic injustices faced by the 140 million Americans living in poverty. Fundraising aims to gather $40,000 for the trip.

A local conservation group urges Fort Worth to buy a 51-acre prairie, Broadcast Hill, to prevent housing development. This parcel, adjacent to Tandy Hills Natural Area, is ecologically rich. Friends of Tandy Hills have raised $45,000 towards its purchase, encouraging city negotiations with Total’s selling agent.

North Texas activist Wendel Withrow will discuss Edward Abbey's influential memoir "Desert Solitaire" on February 19 at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden. Celebrating its impact, Withrow attributes the book to inspiring his environmental career and activism. Hosted by the Greater Fort Worth Sierra Club, attendance is free.

At the dawn of 2020, as we set goals for a greener year, ponder these powerful green quotes from environmentalists like Greta Thunberg and Jane Goodall, highlighting urgent climate actions, sustainable living, and personal responsibility to inspire positive environmental change.