North Texas

The first Earth Day in 1970 saw active participation in North Texas, with schools organizing events like recycling drives, speeches, and teaching sessions. Students were engaged in projects raising environmental awareness. Denton and Arlington hosted activities such as teach-ins and symbolic demonstrations against pollution, while Dallas saw significant student participation in environmental efforts.

Here are 20 tips to reduce your environmental footprint: use compostable coffee pods, make eco-friendly cleaning products, start composting, plant native species, grow organic food, reduce meat consumption, filter tap water, fix leaks, install LED lights and insulation, cook at home, buy sustainable products, recycle more, donate items, shop local, use reusable bags, collect rainwater, and drive less.

Lee Kelton, a passionate advocate for green initiatives in North Texas, passed away from leukemia at 80. Known for his vibrant presence, Kelton contributed significantly to various local environmental, cultural, and educational causes, leaving a lasting impact on communities like Oak Cliff, the North Texas Irish Festival, and Twelve Hills Nature Center.

Both the Dallas and Fort Worth zoos, though closed to the public due to Covid-19, continue animal care routines and bolster online engagements. Staffing and financial challenges persist; Dallas Zoo even launched an Emergency Operations Fund. Measures are in place for social distancing, and animals enjoy more freedom during the closure.

"Be Green in Quarantine!" offers eco-friendly tips for home health, food, and gardening during the coronavirus lockdown. It includes advice on eco-friendly cleaners and home air filters, highlights local veg takeouts, gardening tips, and discusses virtual nature education. It also covers event cancellations and postponed eco-festivals.

Jason explains why now is the perfect time to start growing your own vegetables.

North Texans encourage reviving Victory Gardens, a WWII tradition of home gardening, due to its health and environmental benefits. Gardening boosts immunity, mental well-being, and offers fresh produce. Experts advise on starting seeds, choosing plants, and utilizing small spaces, emphasizing patience and local resources.

Local vegan and vegetarian eateries have adapted to the pandemic by offering takeout and delivery options. Favorites like V-Eats, Nature’s Plate, Spiral Diner, Kalachandji’s, Reverie Bakeshop, The Healthy Hippie, Boulevard of Greens, and Righteous Foods are providing creative solutions to continue serving plant-based meals while encouraging community support.

With North Texans sheltering at home, many find time to garden. Despite the pandemic, garden centers in Dallas are open, offering plants and supplies. Highlights include Marshall Grain, Weston Gardens, and online options like Eco Blossom. Safety measures are emphasized, with garden kits and curbside pickups available.

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.