Net-Zero Hero: Yellow Bike Project
|
|
Since May is Bike Month, we'd like to introduce you to the Yellow Bike Project — a non-profit bike shop run entirely by volunteers. Yellow Bike Project was created in 1997 with the aim of empowering Austinites to ride bikes. Back then, the shop was releasing painted yellow bikes in the community that were free for anyone to use. Essentially, this was Austin’s first bike share program.
You probably haven’t seen any of these bikes around, because the volunteers are now putting their energy into teaching people how to fix their bikes, giving previously-loved bikes to people in need, and keeping bike parts out of the landfill. (And also because we have bike share in Austin now!)
We spoke with the Yellow Bike Project volunteers about their commitment to Net-Zero, what their toughest challenges have been, and what advice they have for others looking to live Net-Zero.
|
|
|
Do you know a sustainable superstar who should be recognized as a Net-Zero Hero? Send your nominations to sustainability@austintexas.gov.
|
|
Sustainability Office Featured in "Talk Green to Me" Series
|
|
|
Don't miss this cool sustainability series in the heat of the summer! This July, our office will be "talking green" at the Central Library's first floor demonstration area. All sessions are free and open to the public — we hope to see you there!
July 16, 12:00-1:00 p.m.
The State of Austin's Food System
Presented by Edwin Marty, City of Austin Food Policy Manager
July 23, 12:00-1:00 p.m.
The Central Library: a deep green building within a green neighborhood
Presented by Lucia Athens, City of Austin Chief Sustainability Officer; David Lake, Founding Partner of Lake|Flato Architects; and Kathy Zarsky, Founder and Director, Biomimicry TX.
July 30, 12:00-1:00 p.m.
Climate Change in Austin
Presented by Zach Baumer, City of Austin Climate Program Manager
|
|
Our future is in very green hands
|
|
On May 11, students and their proud teachers were on hand in the atrium at City Hall to talk about the innovative sustainability projects they are implementing at their schools. The 4th Annual Central Texas Student Innovation Showcase provided the forum to highlight the resourcefulness and imagination of their hard work — and proved once again, that greener cities are on the rise. With more than 300 in attendance at the Showcase, these students are hopeful that their sustainability ideas will spread to the broader community!
In addition to celebrating the ingenuity of area students, two teachers were also recognized for their dedication to all things green. Gabi Garcia from Akins High School was named the EcoRise Teacher of the Year, and Thora O’Neil Gray from the Austin Discovery School received the EcoRise Legacy Award.
|
|
|
|
|
|
