Lifestyle

Oct 09 2019, JOHN KENT

Native flora of U.S. illustrated in Fort Worth exhibit

The "Botanical Art Worldwide: America’s Flora" exhibit in Fort Worth showcases 46 artworks depicting native U.S. plants in various media. Developed by the American Society of Botanical Artists and the U.S. Botanic Garden, it aims to raise awareness of plant diversity and runs free through Nov. 27.

Oct 02 2019, ANDREW RIDOUT

New vegan restaurant pops up in Plano

Viridescent Kitchen, a new vegan café in Plano, offers a plant-based, largely gluten-free menu. Founded by Laura Thornthwaite, Gabrielle Reyes, and Brooke Ali, it features dishes like Monster Nachos and Beyond Beef Figgy Burger. The restaurant prioritizes taste, environmental friendliness, and caters to dietary needs.

Sep 18 2019, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Dallas artist rescues castoff hubcaps

Dallas artist Sharon Zigrossi transforms castoff hubcaps into art, embellishing them with found objects to create vibrant designs. Her work, sold under "Blooming Hub Caps," uses discarded materials, reflecting her love for recycling. She also hosts workshops, sharing her meditative creative process with others.

Aug 28 2019, JOHN KENT

Conservatory quietly reopens at Fort Worth Botanic Garden

The Fort Worth Botanic Garden’s 10,000-square-foot Rainforest Conservatory has quietly reopened after being closed since 2016 due to maintenance and safety issues. Repairs included glass replacements and mechanical overhauls. A grand opening is planned for early 2020, supported by varied funding sources amid ongoing renovation needs.

Aug 22 2019, ANDREA RIDOUT

Send kids back to school with these green supplies

Send kids back to school with eco-friendly supplies like the Eco School Kit, Sproutable Pencils, Bento Boxes, reusable and compostable bags, Eco Utensils, and more. These sustainable options help teach kids about environmental stewardship while providing practical and fun school essentials.

Aug 19 2019, MARSHALL HINSLEY

Okrapalooza celebrates 10 years with two-day fest

The 10th annual Okrapalooza festival on Sept. 14-15 at Reeves Family Farm will feature a Seed to Table dinner and a family-oriented fest with a chef cook-off. Proceeds benefit Promise of Peace Gardens' programs like Soup It Forward, aiding Dallas food deserts with fresh produce and nutritional education.

Aug 14 2019, ANDREA RIDOUT

Water Filters 101: Tips for wading through the options

In north Texas, tap water can taste unpleasant despite being generally clean. To improve water quality, consider filters, which vary from carbon, ion exchange, and reverse osmosis to multi-stage systems. Tested brands like Brita, Zero Water, Life Straw, Aquasana, and others offer varying benefits, while eco-friendly options are emerging to reduce waste.

Aug 14 2019, Lara Korte

Plastic bags are killing horses and cows across Texas

Kristie West, who owns a ranch and bed and breakfast in Pleasanton, has worked to raise awareness about the fatal impact plastic bags have on livestock. Photo by Callie Richmond for The Texas Tribune.

From the Texas Tribune

Aug. 14, 2019

Kristie West was driving down the highway in rural South Texas when she saw it.

The drive from her ranch to the nearby town of Poth was usually uneventful. But on that day in 2017, West saw something that made her slam on the brakes of her pickup.

Jul 31 2019, MINNIE PAYNE

UT Dallas capturing majority of food waste on campus

UT Dallas was recognized for its comprehensive food waste diversion program, winning the 2019 Sustainability Innovation Award from APPA. The program captures 100% of dining hall food waste, minimizes overall waste, and diverts 75,000 pounds annually. Students and staff play key roles in this model initiative.

Jul 29 2019, MINNIE PAYNE

North Texas businesses pick up slack on food composting

North Texans are embracing food composting, aided by local businesses and Fort Worth's pilot program. This effort diverts food waste from landfills, with services like Cowboy Compost and others offering pickup, drop-off, and educational programs. These initiatives aim to extend landfill life and promote environmental sustainability.