With much of Minnesota experiencing high heat and humidity over the last several days, Minnesota Commerce Commissioner Mike Rothman urges Minnesotans to take some basic steps to stay safe and cool while also conserving energy. “As the heat index rises to extreme levels, you want to make sure you are doing all you can to […]
Go Green
A space for articles pertaining to the benefits of nature, environmental justice, and sustainable energy initiatives, with an emphasis on conservation and money-saving tips.
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Thousands of garden plants gifted to North Mpls
Malmborg’s Garden Center and Greenhouse located in Rogers, Minnesota, one of the largest wholesale plant producers in the United States, has become a generous contributor and friend to North Minneapolis. On Saturday, June 22, 2017, Malmborg’s donated and delivered over 5,000 plants and a ton of vegetables to North High School for the “Green Garden […]
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Prepare for severe weather
(MGN Online) With recent damage caused by severe storms in Minnesota and neighboring states, Minnesota Commerce Commissioner Mike Rothman is offering a quick checklist of insurance precautions and preparations to help Minnesotans plan ahead in the event that disaster strikes. “When severe weather hits, having the right insurance coverage can mean the difference between financial […]
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Hennepin County surveys residents on how to recycle more trash
For better or worse, garbage is something that we all deal with, but by reducing the amount of waste we create we can build a healthier environment and more vibrant communities. Take survey by June 16 and help Hennepin County reach recycling goals Hennepin County is currently in the process of writing the 2018 Solid […]
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New PBS documentary ‘Poisoned Water’ tackles Flint water crisis
The water disaster in Flint, Michigan exposed the dangers of this country’s aging water system, and a new film premiering Wednesday, May 31 on PBS’ NOVA tells the mid-Michigan city’s “complex story.” About 300 local residents saw the film already and found it “very powerful,” said Llewellyn Smith in a MSR phone interview. Smith wrote, produced, and […]
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Fix-it Clinics keep stuff out of trash
To date, Hennepin County has hosted 55 free clinics, teaching valuable repair skills, building community connections and reducing the number of repairable objects thrown in the trash. Volunteers provide free, guided assistance to disassemble, troubleshoot and fix stuff. Attend an upcoming Fix-It Clinic, hosted from noon to 4 pm. Items are accepted until 3:30 pm. […]
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If your old AC no longer beats the heat, it may be time for a new one
Air conditioners don’t live forever, and it’s no fun if yours suddenly dies in the middle of a summer heat wave when you need it most. If your central AC unit is 15-20 years old and showing its age with problems like refrigerant leaks, motor failures or inefficient cooling, then it may be time to […]
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New partnership announced to weatherize historic Glendale Townhomes
Sustainable Resources Center, Inc. (SRC), CenterPoint Energy, and the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority (MPHA) are pleased to announce a partnership to pursue weatherization and energy-efficiency improvements to Glendale Townhomes. Glendale is a development of 184 family townhomes in the Prospect Park neighborhood of Minneapolis. It was built in 1952, making it the oldest major public […]
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Clean, renewable energy arrives at State Capitol Complex in May
Beginning May 16, the State Capitol Complex will be powered by clean, renewable energy. In a pilot program between the State and Xcel Energy, 33 percent of the base energy used at the State Capitol Complex will come from renewable sources. “Renewable energy is good for our health, environment, and economy. Minnesota’s clean energy industry […]
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Protect the Earth all year long
A belated Happy Earth Day. Each year, on April 22, the United States recognizes the importance of environmental protections. Landfills are constantly being filled with harmful liquids and solids that should be disposed of properly. We can — and should — do more to improve recycling efforts. The biggest concern for landfills and earth clutter […]
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Large crowds march for science on Earth Day
Thousands gathered at the State Capitol on Earth Day, Saturday, April 22, for the “March for Science” rally. The purpose of the march was to voice opposition to proposed funding cuts to science programs by the Trump Administration — protesters contend that the budget cuts would adversely impact the environment. At least 20 thousand people […]
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Celebrate Earth Day and make a difference
Earth Day, first celebrated in 1970 and occurring every April 22 of the year, presents a great opportunity to focus on ways we can help protect and preserve the environment in which we live. There are lots of events, volunteer opportunities and programs happening across Hennepin County in honor of Earth Day. Volunteer your time to help the environment Clean up […]
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Fix household water leaks and save an average of 10,000 gallons a year
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is challenging residents to check for water leaks in their homes. The average U.S. household wastes more than 10,000 gallons of water a year through leaks. In general, water is being drawn out of Minnesota’s aquifers faster than it is being replenished. Groundwater is the primary source of clean […]
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Keep usables out of trash use the Choose to Reuse website
Keep usable items out of the trash and obtain quality items without buying new with the Hennepin County Choose to Reuse site (http://www.hennepin.us/choosetoreuse). The website is a gathering space for Twin Cities green thinkers that will help you make sustainable choices for everyday living. Choosing to reuse helps us live sustainably by reducing waste, saving […]
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Thanks to Minnesota farmers, we’re making great progress with buffer requirement
Clean water matters to Minnesota. No matter where we live or what we do, Minnesotans want our families and future generations to enjoy water that’s fishable, swimmable, and drinkable. When Gov. Dayton proposed new buffer legislation two years ago, he recognized that we are at a watershed moment in our state’s history when it comes […]
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Eight things to consider when choosing a trash can
While nearly all municipalities or waste haulers provide trash carts and cans, most let residents and businesses use more as needed. “It can be tempting to select an additional trash can based on cost, but looking at other factors can make your life easier,” says Andy Bardsley, vice president of retail and pro sales at […]
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USDA Director: Agriculture census important for Black farmers
At first glance, King Whetstone might present an unusual visual. First, he appears younger than his 40 years — but that’s not why he might stand out. Whetstone once played basketball at Prairie View A&M University, a historically Black university and the second-oldest institution of higher learning in Texas, renowned for its engineering and agriculture. […]
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Minnesotans favor funding to increase statewide access to healthy food
A majority (72 percent) of Minnesotans would be likely to choose healthier food if more options were available in their communities, according to a poll conducted by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota. Nearly 63 percent of respondents also think the state of Minnesota should appropriate funding to increase that access. According to the […]
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Trump Administration could be a blessing in disguise for the environment
With calls to ramp up fossil fuel production what can the average citizen do? The sad fact is that while more than two-thirds of Americans want the federal government to do more to protect against global warming and other environmental ills, the Trump administration is pushing forward with plans to gut the Environmental Protection Agency […]
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Protecting water from salt and pollution this winter
Each winter we salt our roads and sidewalks to protect against sliding cars and slippery walks. Doing so is an important safety measure, but it can also pollute our local ecosystems and drinking water resources. But by using a few best management practices we can keep our roads and sidewalks safe while protecting our natural […]