|
EARTH DAY: ACROSS MIDSOUTH, GREEN MINDSET TAKES ROOT
Residents act with growing resolve to live in ways that nurture a healthy environment for all
Greater Memphis is going green. And it's more than spring weather.
In homes, businesses and public venues large and small the evidence is all around us. No longer is the green movement a fringe idea for flower children. From FedEx to City Hall, Collierville to Midtown, going green is thriving across the Mid-South.
Some still are trying to politicize the movement. And, some projects aren't yet financially viable or broadly applicable. But the signs are unmistakable. Memphis is greener every day in hundreds of different ways.
EARTH DAY EVERY DAY IN APRIL
For mayors A C Wharton and Mark Luttrell, one day to celebrate the accomplishments toward sustainable living in Memphis and Shelby County just wasn't enough, so in March they formally dedicated the month of April as Earth Month -- lending their support to events like Shelby Farms' Down to Earth Festival that help foster and protect our community's natural resources.
GOING TO MARKET
Farmers markets have blossomed over the past few years from only a handful to more than 14 markets -- offering more places and days to shop than ever before. Shopping for fresh produce and local products face-to-face with the grower or producer is now possible seven days a week in response to growth in both consumer demand and the number of growers and producers.
STICK A "GREEN FORK" IN IT
Farmers markets have blossomed over the past few years from only a handful to more than 14 markets -- offering more places and days to shop than ever before. Shopping for fresh produce and local products face-to-face with the grower or producer is now possible seven days a week in response to growth in both consumer demand and the number of growers and producers.
BRIGHT FUTURE FOR SOLAR ENERGY IN MEMPHIS?
The sun shone brightly at the dedication of the new solar array at the Agricenter that promises to generate 1 megawatt of energy over the course of a year, enough to power 107 homes for a year. About 3,000 solar panels that sit atop the Memphis Bioworks parking garage in the Medical Center will also flow into the electricity supply of Memphis Light, Gas and Water Division.
SUSTAINABILITY DELIVERS FOR FEDEX
FedEx initiatives to conduct its operations in more environmentally sensitive ways have earned the Memphis-based company accolades as a high-profile company that conducts business with sustainability in mind. Some of its green initiatives include LEED certification for FedEx Express World Headquarters and conversion of its airplanes and trucks to greener fleets.
GREENLINE A GAME CHANGER
As cyclists, runners and walkers travel up and down the Shelby Farms Greenline, smiles are exchanged and there is a sense of conviviality. The Greenline is doing exactly what its planners intended. From jump-starting community development to boosting business at nearby restaurants and retail stores, the Greenline has been a boon for Memphis since its opening over a year ago.
via Commercial Appeal
April 23, 2012 | 
