Indiana Climbing the Ranks
In 2008 Forbes issued a report on the “greenest” states, which measured factors like clean water, air quality, carbon footprint and obesity rates. Indiana ranked a dismal 49 out of 50.
I confidently say we would rank higher on the list in 2013, than we did in 2008, but we have a long way to go to reach the top.
I, among many others across the beautiful state of Indiana, am a Regional Coordinator for SUSTAINABLE INDIANA 2016, a collaborative project initiated by Earth Charter Indiana. The group SI2016 is working to dramatically change Indiana’s “dirty” image through a massive grassroots educational, motivational and green practices campaign. The plan is by the year 2016, when Indiana celebrates its Bicentennial, the Hoosier state will unveil that it is a national leader in “green innovation.” The stakes are high not only for our children’s children but also for the planet’s future.
SI2016 meets a couple times a month via video conferencing and discuss what “sustainable” projects each area of the state is working on. We trade ideas and foster new ones. If you haven’t visited their website yet, I encourage you to do so. If you would like to participate in our next meeting click here.
Check out a couple of articles on SI2016 website about Terre Haute going greener.
This year SI2016 is promoting “Take the Trail”. By doing so, many communities are forming projects to get more people out and about, riding their bikes. In 2012, their focus was celebrating community gardens. You may remember Indiana State University hosting a garden party. This year, in line with “Take the Trail” the community of Vigo County has organized PATH (Pedal Across Terre Haute). The event, taking place on August 3rd, 2013, focuses on bringing people out onto the fantastic trail system Terre Haute has to offer. More details to come on PATH. Stay tuned to Our Green Valley’s website and Facebook page.
Until next time, happy gardening and trail riding!
-Jane Santucci