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Events

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

9th annual Great Outdoors Week

Get ready for some fun in the sun!

Biking, paddling, adventure, relaxation – these and more are available during the 9th annual Great Outdoors Week set for May 14 through May 23, 2010. A celebration of the outdoors, this ten-day period highlights the many outdoor amenities available right here in Southwestern Pennsylvania, from local rivers, to lakes, parks, trails, and much more! New this year is the recognition of Great Outdoors Week as part of the official World Environment Day (WED) - Pittsburgh celebration.

Each year during Great Outdoors Week, local outdoors groups across the region host numerous outdoor-themed events for all ages and skill levels. Signature events are as follows:
5/14 - Learn to Row and Paddle (hosted by Three Rivers Rowing Association)
5/16 - Pedal Pittsburgh (hosted by Community Design Center of Pittsburgh)
5/21 - National Bike to Work Day (hosted by Bike Pittsburgh)
5/22 - Venture Outdoors Festival (hosted by Venture Outdoors)

Everyone (groups, clubs, individuals, etc.) is welcome to help promote and plan their own celebration of the outdoors. To submit an event to be included as part of the Great Outdoors Week celebration, simply visit www.wallsarebad.com and click “Post to the Site.” (You’ll need to create a login if you don’t have one.)

Overall, outdoor recreation connects many regional imperatives towards becoming more sustainable: healthier lifestyles, talent attraction and retention, improved quality of life, environmental stewardship, and economic development.

For more information on Great Outdoors Week and outdoor recreation in southwestern PA, visit www.wallsarebad.com.

Resources

REGISTER NOW!
Water Matters! Global Water Conference

A World Environment Day key event serving to raise awareness of the importance of water and its interconnectedness with biodiversity.

Thursday, June 3
David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Pittsburgh
For sponsorship opportunities, email cgould@sustainablepittsburgh.org.
To be an exhibitor, email sue@mcmahon-cardillo.com.
Registration is now open. For more details visit the Conference Web site.

The United Nations Environment Programme appointed Pittsburgh as North America's Host City for World Environment Day 2010. Plan to attend this remarkable, milestone for the region, Water Matters! Global Water conference.

Partial list of presenters:
- David Ainsworth, United Nations Convention on Biodiversity
- Herb Buxton, US Geological Survey
- Marla Cone, Environmental Health News
- Marc Edwards, Virginia Tech
- Amy Fraenkel, UNEP Regional Office for North America
- Chip Giller, Grist
- Greg Koch, Global Water Stewardship Program, The Coca-Cola Company
- Mike Magee, healthy-waters.org
- Rich Meeusen, Badger Meter Co. and Milwaukee 7 Water Council
- James Rogers, Duke Energy
- Carl Safina, Blue Ocean Institute

Presented by the Pittsburgh World Environment Day Partnership
In Collaboration with: United Nations Environment Programme
Conference Sponsors:
Bayer Corporation
LANXESS

SIGN UP NOW! Paddle at the Point: Kayak and Canoe World Record Attempt

A World Environment Day key event serving to raise awareness of the importance of water and its interconnectedness with biodiversity.

Saturday, June 5
Email worldrecord@ventureoutdoors.org or visit www.paddleatthepoint.com for more information and updates.

Bring your boat down to Pittsburgh’s North Shore on Saturday, June 5th and help break the World Record for largest flotilla of kayaks and canoes. Venture Outdoors is organizing this event in celebration of World Environment Day on June 5th. Groups, individuals and clubs welcome! The record is currently held by the Inlet Area Businesses Association in upstate New York and it will take 1,105 kayaks and canoes for Pittsburgh to set the new world record.

Faces of Globalization: The 2010 Carnegie Mellon International Film Festival

March 25-April 24, 2010
Ticket prices vary
Various locations
For complete details about all the films and the special UN World Environment Day screening, visit the website: www.cmu.edu/faces.

In film, what does “globalization” mean? This is the question Faces of Globalization poses through a presentation of contemporary documentaries and feature lengths from a wide range of authors and perspectives. In order to humanize the debate, there must be a face to the issue. In its fourth year, the Carnegie Mellon International Film Festival continues to put faces to its theme, authors on the scene and audience members in the dialogue. Viewers will leave the theater with a better understanding of climate change, the environmental effects on waterways, the political challenges of the largest urban farm in Los Angeles, the age old practices of rural Mexico, the architectural phenomenon that is the shopping mall, as well as more socio-political themes in settings like Liberia and Afghanistan. Paired with panel discussions, director Q&A sessions, video conferencing technology, locally catered receptions and live performances, this is a comprehensive viewing experience not to be missed!

Farm to Table Conference

March 26-27, 2010
Times vary
David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Downtown Pittsburgh
Cost: $25.00 (Admission for both Friday and Saturday and Networking Breakfast on Saturday)
Kids under 12 are free. Group ticket sale discounts are available, please call Erin @ (412) 563-7807.
After Thursday, March 25, tickets can be purchased at the event.
More information

Conference Highlights:
- Farmers Market
- Cooking Demonstrations by Chefs and Dieticians
- Presentations by researchers and scientists about the benefits of eating local food
- Local Food Tasting on Friday night
- Saturday morning networking breakfast

Energy Engineers Job Fair

Tuesday, March 30
4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Radisson Hotel, Greentree
Cost: $25 if pre-registered and free for college students.
For more information, contact Danelle Ardell at dardell@noresco.com
You may also attend the ASHRAE event that starts at 1:00pm with the same admission registration.
To register and for more details, visit http://aee.memberlodge.com, Future Events

The Pittsburgh Chapter of the Association of Energy Engineers will be holding a job fair in conjunction with the Pittsburgh Chapter of the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air-Conditioning Engineers' (ASHRAE) first annual Casino Night. AEE is a nonprofit professional society whose mission is "to promote the scientific and educational interests of those engaged in the energy industry and to foster action for Sustainable Development." Local Energy Engineers will be sharing information as to the kinds of Energy Jobs that are available in the Pittsburgh region. Anyone interested in becoming an Energy Professional, whether they are just graduating or looking for a career change should attend.

Simple Upgrades for a GREENER, Leaner Government!

Thursday, April 8
8:00 am – 10:00 am
Engineers’ Society of Western PA, 337 Fourth Avenue, Downtown Pittsburgh
Cost: $35 GBA Member | $65 Non-member
Register: Online or contact Karen Puff for details
Continuing Education Credits; GBCI CE Hours: tbd

What’s the difference between an ESCO and an energy diagnostics firm?

These and many other questions will be answered at this informative breakfast briefing, which features a panel discussion about incorporating sustainable upgrades at the municipal level. A diverse group of experts will cover several topics, including the financial impact of energy efficiency upgrades, the benefits of energy auditing and the obstacles of integrating these types of initiatives on a large scale. Additionally, they will discuss Allegheny County’s aggressive sustainability initiatives.

Panel:
Jeaneen Zappa (moderator) – Allegheny County, Sustainability Manager
Ed Rafalski – DMI Companies, Director of Sales and Marketing
Larry Godleski – Constellation Energy, Director of Regional Markets
Jamie Colecchi – Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission, Community Assistance Manager

Who should attend: Local government officials and staff; property owners/developers; professionals working in building design, operations, products and consulting; and interested citizens. Event sponsored by RCx & Green Building Alliance

Human Health and the Environment Workshop

Thursday, April 8
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
East End Food Co-Op
Cost: $20 per person/$25 per couple
RSVP by contacting Sarah Alessio at (412) 488-7490 ext. 236, by email at saraha@ccicenter.org or by registering online at www.prc.org.

In 2004 the Environmental Working Group tested the blood of 10 Americans and found over 287 chemicals present. What was even more troubling was that these 10 Americans were newborn babies, blood taken from their umbilical cords.

Everyone is exposed to a number of different chemicals, carcinogens, and toxins on a daily basis. These exposures can come from cell phones, ingredients in personal care products, cleaning products, plastics, and so on. While people may have no control over some exposures, there are many that they do, and steps they can take to reduce exposure and improve the health of the environment.

This program provides the public with practical solutions such as safe alternatives for cleaning products, personal care products and healthy lifestyle choices. In an effort to reduce one’s exposure to toxins and to reduce the amount of toxins in our environment, all workshop participants will receive a non-toxic green cleaning kit.

This program is presented by the Pennsylvania Resources Council (PRC), in partnership with the UPCI Center for Environmental Oncology.

Banff Mountain Film Festival

April 9-10, 2010
7:00 pm
Soldiers and Sailors, Oakland
Tickets are on sale now through Pro Arts Ticketing
Find details about the films, raffle, or other initiatives at www.ventureoutdoors.org/banff.aspx
Proceeds from the raffle will benefit Venture Outdoors Family and Community Programs.

Banff Mountain Film Festival gathers the most inspiring and thought-provoking action and environmental films of the year and takes them on tour. Venture Outdoors has screened the films in Pittsburgh since 2007, and claims that especially this year, even the intermission is especially exciting!

The Banff Centre, located at the heart of Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada, is dedicated to inspiring creativity. By inspiring exceptional artists and leaders from around the world to come together, they foster new ideas, new collaborations, and new solutions in the arts and in leadership. Banff Mountain Film Festival is just one example of their fine work.

Each year, roughly 300 pro and amateur filmmakers enter the festival, and the top-tier few are screened worldwide during the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour. This year, see 14 of the upper tier picks at Banff in Pittsburgh.

Both nights at Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall will boast an extravagant spread of prizes to be raffled off at intermission’s end. Brand new bikes, kayaks, Kayak Pittsburgh Season Passes and private guided fly fishing trips remain among the top prizes, and this year timeshares have been added to the pot. Friday night, take advantage of the opportunity to win a week in Beaver Creek, Colorado. The winner will spend seven days at the Hyatt Mountain Lodge, a value of $2,100. The 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom suite sleeps 4-6 people and is located close to Vail Mountain. On Saturday night, join the pool for a week in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley of Virginia at the Massanutten Resort. The resort is located 10 miles east of Harrisonburg, VA and features challenging golf courses, an indoor and outdoor water park, and luxurious spa.

Breakfast with BP Solar

Tuesday, April 13
7:45 am - 8:30 am - Registration / Continental Breakfast
8:30 am - 9:45 am - Presentation
Kurt J. Lesker Company, 1925 Route 51, Clairton, PA
Cost: $45 Member | $175 Non-Member
Register: Online

As one of the world’s largest solar companies with installations in more than 160 countries, BP Solar designs, manufactures and markets their own systems for residential, business and governmental consumers. And, with the nation’s push toward the utilization of more alternative sources of energy, the supply chain for companies like BP will most likely continue to grow. On April 13, the Green Technology Network will host Dr. Rubin Sidhu, a member of BP Solar’s Cell Technology Team. He will speak to the network on the BP’s technology roadmap as it pertains to reaching grid parity using BP Solar's silicon solar cell technology. Event sponsored by Catalyst Connection and Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC.

The Business of Brownfields Conference

April 19 - 21, 2010
Sheraton Station Square Hotel, Pittsburgh, PA
Questions: Call 412-261-0710, ext. 11 or e-mail c.mcgarvey@eswp.com
More information
Program

Plans are underway for the 15th Annual Business of Brownfields Conference (BoB)! The 2010 event will highlight the technical, legal and financial aspects of brownfields reclamation and development, and will feature experience and research-based presentations from stakeholders who are involved with the assessment, cleanup and reuse of abandoned, idled or under-used commercial and industrial sites.

If you are associated with brownfields development, the "BoB" is the place to be!

The 2010 Technical program of the "BoB" will feature the five main actions of brownfields development:
* Public Health/Institutional Controls
* Marketing & Finance
* Site Characterization
* Site Remediation
* Working within Legal/Regulatory Framework

Women's Health & the Environment Conference

Wednesday, April 21
8:00 am - 3:45 pm
David L. Lawrence Convention Center
Registration is free; Space is limited.
Visit www.womenshealthpittsburgh.org for more information.

The conference will feature nationally renowned environmental scientists, writers and activists who will share the newest science examining the possible link between the environment and health. The morning speakers will share scientific data to support the way in which toxins affect people. Afternoon speakers will share solutions that will enlighten attendees about lifestyle choices they can make to create a healthier environment for themselves and their families.

Global Warming 2010: Experts and Heroes Creating a Climate for Justice

Sunday, May 2
1:30 pm - 6:00 pm (Refreshments and check-in from 1:30 pm - 2:00 pm)
August Wilson Center for African American Culture, 980 Liberty Avenue, Downtown Pittsburgh
Admission: $10; Free for PennFuture members and students with a valid ID. Refreshments included.
Pre-registration is required by Thursday, April 29.
To sign up for a table for your organization, or to volunteer at the event, contact Sharon Pillar
More information and registration

Experts on global warming are under attack as never before, but they are standing firm and speaking out, showing heroic leadership for the planet. This conference allows you to meet great experts and heroes, and learn how a climate for justice is created here in western Pennsylvania.

Heroes and experts and their topics include:
Dr. Robert Bullard, Ware Distinguished Professor of Sociology, Director of the Environmental Justice Resource Center at Clark Atlanta University to discuss racial and social implications of climate justice;
Dr. Michael Mann, renowned climatologist and director of Earth System Science Center at Pennsylvania State University, to describe the facts behind global warming science;
Peter Altman, Climate Campaign Director, National Resources Defense Council, who will explore the origins of the recent attacks on climate science;

Local Green Opportunities Panel will include:
- Lee Ann Briggs of Duquesne University’s Small Business Development Center (moderator);
- Carla Castagnero of AgRecycle, our region’s only commercial composter;
- Richard Taylor of ImbuTech, a company that sells LED lighting;
- Joe Simko of Hodge & Elyria Foundry, manufacturer of wind turbine components;
- Tonya Johnson of Green Empowerment Training Alliance, an organization preparing minority and low-income people for the green economy.
Other speakers will cover state and federal energy and climate policy and the low carbon fuel standard;

Visit tabling organizations to find information on sustainable foods, solar, wind, geothermal, energy efficiency, biodiesel, green building materials, and more!

Please note: The Pittsburgh Marathon will be held earlier on May 2. Most of the marathon activities will be finished by the start of the conference, but please allow extra travel time.

Chill the Drills: Oil Development and Climate Change in America's Arctic

Thursday, May 20
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm (Doors open at 6:30 pm)
The Art Institute of Pittsburgh, First Floor Gallery, 420 Blvd. of the Allies, Downtown Pittsburgh
Free to attend; RSVP requested.
To RSVP or with questions, contact alleghenyesa@gmail.com
Website: www.alleghenysc.org
Flyer

“The Arctic region is the single most endangered ecosystem on the planet.” So says, Kit McGurn, the Sierra Club’s national expert on the Alaskan Wilderness. No one knows more about the impact of unrestricted development on this environment. Come be a part of a multi-media presentation as Kit describes the growing threat of climate change and oil development to Alaska’s most pristine habitats. Join other environmentally conscious citizens and find out what you can do to help.

Diversity Conference

May 20-21, 2010
Holiday Inn Monroeville, 2750 Mosside Boulevard, Monroeville 15146
Contact: Jennie Thye at 412-471-8722 ext. 214 or jthye@3riversadopt.org

Plan to join Three Rivers Adoption Council and Family Design Resources for a compelling two-day conference exploring diversity issues impacting services to children & families. May 20th features keynote speaker Dr. Sharon E. Moore, Professor of Social Work, University of Louisville. Dr. Moore will address: “Racial and Ethnic Identity Development in Youth." May 21st will feature a panel of distinguished professionals from the child welfare, juvenile justice, education, medical and mental health fields who will address the critical nature of diversity and inclusion in the practice of serving children and families.

This event is geared towards professionals from the child welfare, juvenile justice, education, medical and mental health fields and for resource families. CE, CLE credits will be available. Act 48 approval is pending. Resource Family re-certification hours available.

Race in America: Restructuring Inequality

June 3–6, 2010
University of Pittsburgh, Oakland
Fees vary. Register before March 31st for the early bird discount.
Conference brochure
More information

The University of Pittsburgh has set the stage for a solution-focused dialogue on race, one that will bring together some of the best minds on this important subject. Pitt’s School of Social Work and the school's Center on Race and Social Problems will host Race in America: Restructuring Inequality, a national conference in Pittsburgh, Pa.

"Times of challenge provide the opportunity to create change. As the nation continues its efforts to recover from an economic downturn, there has never been a better time to re-examine and correct racial inequalities in American society. It is our intent to make this the best conference ever on race in America. More importantly, it is our goal to make it the most useful one."

—Larry E. Davis, dean of the School of Social Work and Donald M. Henderson Professor at the University of Pittsburgh.

Who should attend?
* Academic researchers
* Community leaders and organizers
* Community members
* Economists
* Educators
* Health care professionals
* Law professionals
* Policy makers
* Psychologists
* Social workers
* Sociologists

Be a part of this dialogue on race and how it relates to every facet of society – from the economy, to families, to the criminal justice system.

Save the Date: The Road to Sustainability II Conference

Thursday, September 23
8:30 am – 3:00 pm
Community College of Beaver County, Athletic and Events Center, 1 Campus Drive, Monaca
Cost: $40 per person
Sponsor and vendor opportunities are available. For more details, please call 724-480-3443 or contact nancy.dickson@ccbc.edu.

The Community College of Beaver County, as well as current sponsors Sustainable Pittsburgh and First National Bank, will host “The Road to Sustainability II Conference: Implementing Sustainable Strategies” on Thursday, September 23. Conference attendees will learn practical ways for moving their business from sustainable concept to sustainable reality. National and regional experts will speak on topics such as: implementation strategies, demystifying the energy audit, converting return on investment into LEED Certification, and creating a sustainable work environment. Products and services dealing with sustainability will be on display and breakout sessions focusing on specific “green” topics will highlight best practices and case studies.

Resources

The New Emerald City

But World Environment Day 2010 Pittsburgh is envisioned to be more than just a celebration; it’s also intended to be transformative and catalytic. “It is a very real opportunity for our region to create an economic strategy that will embrace the business of water,” says Court Gould, executive director of Sustainable Pittsburgh, a public-policy advocacy group that helps integrate economic prosperity, social equity and environmental quality for regional businesses and communities through sustainable solutions.

Join Team Sustainable Pittsburgh in the Escape to the Lake MS 150 Ride

Sponsors and riders needed!

On June 12-13th, Team Sustainable Pittsburgh will be cycling 150 miles to raise money for multiple sclerosis. Hosted by the National MS Society’s Western PA Chapter, the ride starts at Coopers Lake, Butler County, and ends at the shores of Lake Erie, with an an overnight stopping point at/near Edinboro University. The goal is set to raise $10,000 net of costs!

Novice and experienced riders are invited to join the team and help raise money for a worthy cause while helping to promote sustainable development in southwestern Pennsylvania.

Interested? Please contact the team captain and Sustainable Pittsburgh member, Simon Davidoff, at (609) 937-2495 or simondavidoff1@gmail.com and/ or go directly to the MS150 web site and sign up online. (Note: Be sure to locate Team Sustainable Pittsburgh online to join the team). Training rides are a possibility and riders have the option of riding just one or both days.

Riders who do join will be expected to pay the MS Society event registration fee of around $50 (fee varies depending on when you sign up and what options you choose) and raise at least $250 in pledges for MS.

Call for Sponsors!
Team Sustainable Pittsburgh welcomes sponsors to help fund the team to achieve its goal for the MS ride. Items such as team clothing, the overnight stay (e.g. a team tent), massage, catering etc., are needed. Depending on the level of sponsorship, business logos could be incorporated into the team communications before and during the event. For more information, please contact Simon Davidoff at (609) 937-2495, simondavidoff1@gmail.com or Ginette Walker Vinski of Sustainable Pittsburgh at (412) 258-6646, gvinski@sustainablepittsburgh.org.

Thanks in advance for your support of Team Sustainable Pittsburgh!

Interview with Bruce Katz: The Next Economy

In the second episode of Metro Matters, Next American City talks with Bruce Katz, co-founder and vice president of Brookings’ Metropolitan Policy Program, about the next economy for the United States. In a far-ranging conversation, Katz serves up a vision for a low-carbon, innovation-fueled economy, and explains why the Great Lakes Region can once again be the leader of the country’s export industry. With talking points on China, the Tea Party, and Detroit, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

EPA Smart Growth Releases Report: Redevelopment Continues in Urban Neighborhoods

An updated U.S. Environmental Protection Agency report shows a continuing shift in development toward urban neighborhoods in the United States, despite a slow a real estate market. This trend, described in EPA’s 2010 report, “Residential Construction Trends in America’s Metropolitan Regions,” shows that redevelopment continues in many urban neighborhoods. Taking advantage of opportunities to reuse land and to redevelop underused sites is a key smart growth strategy. It helps communities protect natural lands from being developed, strengthens the local economy, and puts new homes, stores, and jobs within easy reach of surrounding neighborhoods.

The data show that, compared to the early 1990s, the share of construction in urban neighborhoods was up 28 percent in mid-sized metropolitan regions that have promoted redevelopment of underused sites and development around transit, such as Portland, Ore; Denver, Colo.; and Sacramento, Calif. For example, in 2008 Portland issued 38 percent of all the building permits within its region, compared to an average of 9 percent in the early 1990s; Denver accounted for 32 percent, up from 5 percent; and Sacramento accounted for 27 percent, up from 9 percent.

The latest report shows that an even stronger trend toward urban redevelopment in the largest metropolitan regions continued in 2008. New York City accounted for 63 percent of the building permits issued within its region. By comparison, the city averaged about 15 percent of regional building permits during the early 1990s. Similarly, Chicago now accounts for 45 percent of the building permits within its region, up from just 7 percent in the early 1990s.

The original report, issued in Feb. 2009, examined building trends in the 50 largest metropolitan areas from 1990 to 2007. The update incorporates data for 2008, which included several months of national economic downturn.

Port Authority Routes to Change April 4

The first large-scale improvement of Port Authority of Allegheny County’s route network will start in less than two weeks – Sunday, April 4, 2010. About 60 bus and light-rail routes will change in this first phase. The remaining changes to more than 100 other routes will occur in phases over the next two years. These are the most extensive system-wide improvements at Port Authority since its creation in the mid-1960s. Many bus routes still follow old trolley lines across Allegheny County even though populations and employment centers have moved. The Authority also is replacing its aging fare collection equipment and will offer riders the use of smart cards. Both projects are projected to be completed in 2012.

More

A Controversial Drilling Practice Hits Roadblock in New York City

Hydro fracturing is a profitable method of natural gas extraction that uses large quantities of water and chemicals to free gas from underground rock formations. But New York City’s concerns that the practice would threaten its water supply have slowed a juggernaut that has been sweeping across parts of the northeastern United States.

Call for Facilitators

The Power of 32 is excited to announce another unique opportunity to help shape a significant regional visioning effort that will bring 32 counties in 4 states together. More than 100 volunteer Facilitators will be needed to lead community conversations – forums that will bring together residents of the 32 counties to deliberate about the assets and challenges to this region and develop ideas about opportunities for the future.

As strong community leaders, the Power of 32 needs your help to recruit qualified individuals who can successfully facilitate discussions about this region’s future. Facilitators are a fundamental element to the outreach strategy that engages residents who represent the demographic make-up of the region. Your ability to connect with the community, its leaders, and your friends on Linked-In and Facebook will ensure that the highest quality individuals are selected.

Facilitators will be trained by AmericaSpeaks during the month of May. They will lead at least three Community Conversations within the regions, most likely in their county or a neighboring county, with a co-facilitator. These sessions will average 30 people and last approximately 2.5 hours. The agenda, discussion questions and materials for the conversations are developed in advance. The facilitator will also work with an Outreach Coordinator, who will be responsible for logistics - finding locations, developing Community Conversation schedules, recruiting participants and ensuring there are two facilitators and volunteers for each Conversation.

All interested candidates must complete the Facilitator application by April 24th. For more information, please contact Bill Schlachter at bills@powerof32.org or (412) 648-9301.

'Walk in the Woods' picked for next One Book project

The topic this year for the Allegheny County Library Association's One Book, One Community effort is the region's growing interest in "greening" its environment, hence the selection of "A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail," author Bill Bryson's 1998 comedic tale.

What Household Toxins Could Mean for Our Health

You have flame retardant chemicals in your body. They're toxic. Americans have the highest levels of anyone in the world. The chemicals are in the dust in our homes and offices and schools. And they're showing up in our food. In a series on flame retardants, Rebecca Williams takes a look at what these exposures might mean for our health.

Freeways Responsible For Emptying Out Cities

A recent study shows that for every significant freeway that gets built in a major city, population declines by about 18%. Nathaniel Baum-Snow, author of the study, talks with Planetizen.

Should Bikes And Cars Be Treated Equally?

"People across America who value bicycling should have a voice when it comes to transportation planning," LaHood wrote on his Fast Lane blog March 15. "This is the end of favoring motorized transportation at the expense of non-motorized. We are integrating the needs of bicyclists in federally-funded road projects." LaHood's blog post includes recommendations for how states and communities can accomplish this, such as "treat walking and bicycling as equals with other transportation modes" and "set a mode share target for walking and bicycling."

Saving Depleted River Could Unite War-Torn Region

A six-year drought, pollution and overuse have heightened tensions between Israelis, Palestinians and Jordanians who depend on water from the Jordan River. "The fight over the Jordan illustrates the potential for conflict over water that exists throughout the world. We live on a planet where neighbors have been clubbing each other over rivers for thousands of years. (The word "rival," from the Latin rivalis, originally described competitors for a river or stream.) Worldwide, a long list of watersheds brims with potential clashes: between India and Pakistan over the Indus; Ethiopia and Egypt over the Nile; Turkey and Syria over the Euphrates; Botswana and Namibia over the Okavango. Yet according to researchers at Oregon State University, of the 37 actual military conflicts over water since 1950, 32 took place in the Middle East; 30 of them involved Israel and its Arab neighbors. Of those, practically all were over the Jordan River and its tributaries, which supply millions of people with water for drinking, bathing, and farming."

The Green Race is On

This Annual Review celebrates both the 15 year anniversary of the WBCSD and how member companies are engaging with sustainable development. In it we cover the pertinent issues challenging us, including:
- Energy, climate, development and urbanization and the link between them
- The re-invention of “green jobs”
- Smarter grids, new investments in energy supply and distribution
- Sustainable consumption, with consumers beginning to look at individual purchasing patterns and their impacts on the planet
- Global and local water challenges
- Advanced green energy technologies
- Business opportunities associated with the sustainable management and stewardship of ecosystems and the creation of market mechanisms for ecosystem services.

Petition to replace Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail (LHHT) bridge

The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail/Snowmobile Trail Bridge over the Pennsylvania Turnpike has been part of the current trail system for more than 30 years and is critical for the trail system to be complete. This bridge has been closed indefinitely due to structural deficiencies resulting in unsafe conditions.

Please support the repair or replacement of this bridge so outdoor enthusiasts may continue to have full use of the trails. The closure of this bridge limits tourism and greatly impacts local businesses and the economy in this region.

This petition will be sent to the DCNR, Governor Rendell, Richard A. Kasunic (Senator), Mike Reese (Representative) and Carl Walker Metzgar (Representative).

Western Pennsylvania CSA — From the Farm, Direct to You

Savor local flavor all season long with a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) farm share. To join a CSA is to buy a share of the season's harvest and become part of the farm community. This direct connection puts the face of food in full view! Before the start of the season, when the farmer is planning the upcoming year, shares are sold to members of the community at a fixed price. The farmer plans plantings to meet the shares that have been sold. Every week throughout the season, the CSA community receives a box of that week's harvest. Most CSAs deliver to several convenient area locations, but they always encourage the community to come to the farm, and even to participate in the growing of their food.

This season, CSA Farms are offering a more diverse line of products, including brown eggs, jams, jellies, pickles, meat, honey, and dairy due to consumer demand for farm fresh foods that simply taste better. Dillner Family Farm will offer a mix of orchard fruit from Boyer Farms to compliment their fruits and vegetables in the CSA shares, plus Value-added products from other local farms including preserves, relishes, Amish baked goods, honey and organic eggs.

CSA aims to re-establish a sense of connection to the land and foster a sense of community and cooperation, with a decided social justice goal to provide food security for disadvantaged groups. More farms than ever are offering flexible pricing options, such as work shares; contact your farm to discuss terms.

For information on becoming a Member of Sustainable Pittsburgh, please visit our website.

3E Links is sent as a service to Sustainable Pittsburgh Members and interested parties and is being distributed for informational purposes. The information above was provided by or obtained from the organizing institution or one of its representatives. Our distribution does not imply endorsement. To unsubscribe, reply to this e-mail and type UNSUBSCRIBE in the subject line.

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Sustainable Pittsburgh affects decision-making in the Pittsburgh Region to integrate economic prosperity, social equity and environmental quality bringing sustainable solutions to communities and businesses.

Sustainable Pittsburgh benefits from support ($1,000 and up) in 2010 from:

Allegheny County - Dan Onorato, County Executive
Atkins Family Foundation
BNY Mellon
Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation
Dollar Bank
Elsie H. Hillman Foundation
FedEx Ground
Port Authority of Allegheny County
Richard King Mellon Foundation
The Heinz Endowments
UPMC
Waste Management


Special thanks to the SP Members

Sustainable Pittsburgh
425 Sixth Avenue, Suite 1335
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
(412) 258-6642
fax (412) 258-6645
E-mail SP