As environmental justice battles rage around the country, thousands of African American children and adults are being left out of the conversation.
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.
City of Minneapolis observes Earth Hour
Residents and businesses are invited to join the City of Minneapolis in switching off their lights between 8:30-9:30 pm on March 30 in honor of Earth Hour.
‘Black Farmers’ gear up for legal fight after appeals court setback
The descendants of Earnest Lee Boyland from Mason, Tenn. filed a lawsuit in the 1990s alleging that the USDA adhered to discriminatory policies against African American farmers…
Why Jamaica is leading the climate revolution
Even before the British billionaire invested US$1 billion in making the region ‘climate-smart,’ Jamaica, Barbados and Dominica were pioneering a renewable energy boom in the Caribbean.
Bike-friendly cities should be designed for all, not just for wealthy White cyclists
Designing for bikes has become a hallmark of forward-looking modern cities worldwide. Bike-friendly city ratings abound, and advocates promote cycling as a way to reduce problems ranging from air pollution to traffic deaths.
A winter gardening checklist for springtime
There are still plenty of tasks for gardeners to do — even in this frozen tundra — to prepare for the new season.
‘Tis The Season: 5 tips for reducing holiday waste
Here are some tips for green gift-giving that may help reduce your waste over the holidays.
The holidays are the perfect time to recycle old batteries
For a safe and happy holiday season, take the step of recycling your used batteries. It’s a simple way to prepare your home, make a positive impact on the environment and keep the people and property you love safe.
12 ways to green up your holiday season
Help green the earth with your holiday shopping choices.
Don’t throw away those leaves!
Don’t let leaves blow away, as they can clog up storm drains and pollute our local lakes and rivers with excess nutrients.
A Great Lakes pipeline dispute points to a broader energy dilemma
A big spill in Michigan’s Straits of Mackinac could have devastating consequences.
How to save energy (and coin) like a pro this winter
What better time than now to winterize your house or apartment to not only save some coin, but also reduce your carbon footprint?  Read on for 10 quick tips to manage your home’s heat without breaking the bank.
The farm bill is not just for farmers
This essentially forced Black farmers out of agriculture for over several decades. In 1920, Black farmers represented one out of seven U.S. farmers; by 1992, the number of Black farmers in America had declined to just one out of 100.
Stay ahead of the recycling curve
Recyclables are still in demand from manufacturers who want high-quality materials to make new products and from consumers who want to buy products with recycled content.
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum: a year-round haven for nature lovers
But one doesn’t need a special occasion to enjoy the splendor of the Arboretum. And as autumn draws near, the lure of its sprawling grounds grows especially sweet with thoughts of apples, pumpkins and colorful leaves.
Black folks farm (but not like they used to)
The image of farming and the quality of life it provides has changed over the years. Farmers, especially Black farmers, are not as visible today as they were in previous generations. That is primarily because we are in rural areas far separated and removed from the ruckus of urban congestion and life in a concrete jungle.
How to throw a waste-free party
You can entertain family and guests without leaving a heavy footprint. It just requires a little pre-planning and setting yourself up with durable goods. Read on for six quick tips to help reduce the waste at your next big function.
Six eco-friendly alternatives to plastic straws
Even locally, a growing number of Twin Cities businesses have eliminated their use, including the Dakota Jazz Club and Ice House. If you’d like a straw at First Avenue and 7th Street Entry, you’ll have to specifically request it.
Garden your way to better health
A University of Arkansas study found that yard work, as well as weight training, more significantly maintained bone density than aerobics, dancing or bicycling in women over 50. And, for those of us trying to lose weight, add 30 minutes of gardening to your daily or weekly routine to help shed some extra pounds.Â
Cool down this summer with this ice-cold refresher
Not only are mints great for adding flavor to your favorite drink, these fragrant leaves also serve as great air fresheners and herbal medicines and are easy to grow at home.
