North Texas

On Oct. 28, 2022, three North Texans were recognized for promoting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals at the UN Day Global Leadership Awards. Honorees were Susie Marshall for SDG 3, Meghna Tare for SDG 4, and Gary Olp for SDG 11. Other mentions included leaders advancing various other SDGs.

Bats are often linked to mythical monsters like Dracula, yet they offer significant ecological benefits. While vampire bats exist, they mainly reside in Central and South America. In North Texas, several beneficial bat species, such as the Mexican free-tailed bat, play crucial roles in pest control and ecosystems.

DFW and DAL airports in North Texas are rivaled for sustainability. DFW, a major economic engine, achieved carbon neutrality and targets net zero carbon by 2030 through renewable energy and efficient operations. DAL, while smaller, emphasizes urban sustainability with LEED certification, EV initiatives, and recycling programs.

Dallas College's 12th Annual Sustainability Summit titled "Be the Change: Conscious Action Creates Purposeful Change" will occur on Nov. 4 at Brookhaven Campus and online. It features keynote speakers Xiuhtezcatl Martinez and Seth Godin, breakout sessions, and free admission.

Spiral Diner, a beloved Dallas vegan eatery, closed after 14 years but will open three new venues in Tarrant County: a new Spiral Diner in Arlington and two Fort Worth ventures, Maiden and Dreamboat Donuts and Scoops, offering plant-based fine dining, donuts, and ice cream in early 2023.

Dallas City Council's 2022-2023 budget allocates an additional $2.5 million to environmental initiatives. This funds staff for environmental justice, air quality, and brownfield programs, supports solar panel installations, and launches the weatherization pilot for low-income residents. It strengthens Dallas’ commitment to sustainability and climate goals.

More than 2,000 Texans have signed a petition condemning the Marvin Nichols Reservoir, opposing its development due to potential economic and environmental impacts. Preserve Northeast Texas, a coalition of landowners and environmentalists, argues the project would remove 200,000 acres of productive land.

The Green Source DFW Awards returns on Dec. 4 at Fort Worth Botanic Garden, marking its in-person comeback. Established in 2012, this gala honors green leaders and will be held in a new venue. Tickets cost $25-$35, with additional options for exploring holiday exhibits.

The 13th annual DFW Solar Tour returns in-person on Oct. 1, after two years online. Hosted by the North Texas Renewable Energy Group, this free event showcases six locations promoting renewable energy education. Highlights include advanced solar homes and insights into energy storage and financing options.

Hackberry leafrollers, or Sciota celtidella, devoured the leaves of hackberries across North Texas, creating spooky webs. Despite initial concerns, pest specialist Wizzie Brown assures residents the outbreak is non-threatening, and the trees will recover. These caterpillars provide food for migrating birds, so pesticides aren't needed.