North Texas

Allen ISD's new STEAM Center, designed by VLK Architects, integrates arts into STEM education with indoor-outdoor learning spaces, sustainable design, and innovative facilities, promoting environmental education. It addresses a national STEM skills gap and offers diverse classes and real-world experiences, including ecological zones and a living laboratory pond.

Audubon Texas is launching a Clean Energy Future Campaign to address climate change impacts on birds by transitioning to clean energy in DFW. Events in Dallas (Sept. 18) and Fort Worth (Sept. 24) aim to recruit volunteers from all demographics to support clean energy initiatives and habitat preservation efforts.

Dallas invites residents to six public meetings between Sept. 17 and Oct. 3 for input on a Climate Action Plan. The city hired AECOM to develop the plan. An online survey will be available Sept. 17-Oct. 27 for further feedback. Contact Susan Alvarez or Brittany Hailey for more information.

At the 8th annual Green Source DFW Sustainable Leadership Awards on Nov. 14 at the Dallas Arboretum, Austin-based Montopolis will headline, performing "The Legend of Big Bend." The event celebrates North Texas green heroes, featuring awards, music, and a video tribute to Big Bend National Park.

On Sept. 19, North Texas Giving Day amplifies donations to over 3,000 nonprofits, including environmental and animal welfare groups. Donors can preschedule gifts from Sept. 9, with all contributions eligible for bonus funds. Communities Foundation of Texas governs the event, featuring Dirk and Jessica Nowitzki as honorary chairs.

Chris Guldi of the Dallas Sierra Club leads Climate Walks to raise climate change awareness in Dallas. The two-mile guided tours cover local landmarks and aim to educate participants on climate impacts and solutions, highlighting Dallas's investments in fossil fuels and health effects of extreme weather.

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.

Green Source DFW and the Memnosyne Institute launch a new podcast, the Texas Green Report, featuring environmental experts from Texas. Reporters include Marshall Hinsley and Andrea Ridout. The podcast aims to inform and entertain listeners, with sponsorships available. Pilot episodes are online for feedback.

Climate change poses significant health risks, including heat-related illnesses, allergies, asthma, and vector-borne diseases, particularly in North Texas. Experts Dr. Tony Perri and nurse Dorothy Perri highlight the urgent need for proactive measures to mitigate these effects and encourage engagement with local climate initiatives.