Over thirty-five participants engaged in collaborative discussions focused on addressing sustainability challenges in Philadelphia, generating innovative ideas for environmental improvement.
On March 18, 2023, over thirty-five community members and local experts engaged in a collaborative event titled “Sustainability in Motion,” hosted by Green Philly. The gathering aimed to address sustainability issues prevalent in Philadelphia through a series of roundtable discussions. Participants were invited to share insights and brainstorm innovative solutions to pressing environmental challenges.
The event followed previous discussions facilitated by Green Philly, including a conversation last September that involved local legislators, such as Liz Lankenau and representatives from Councilmember Jamie Gauthier’s office. This time, however, the focus was on direct engagement between residents and experts.
The discussions revolved around five primary topics: Litter and dumping, Renewable Energy, Clothing and Textiles, the Built Environment, and Environmental Justice and Land Use. Each group generated actionable ideas, drawing on the unique perspectives of the attendees.
In the Litter and Dumping segment, led by Shari Hersh of Trash Academy, participants examined ways to decrease littering and combat illegal dumping. A key suggestion was to make waste disposal more accessible for small haulers, who often struggle with limited options and high costs. Their proposal included implementing a cost-sharing membership scheme for these haulers, which would reduce barriers and potentially save the city money on cleanup efforts. Resident Ashley Scott highlighted the urgency of the issue, saying, “Why are there kids playing in vacant lots with glass? Children should grow up in environments that feel warm and welcoming to them. They shouldn’t be walking through trash.”
The Built Environment group, facilitated by Emily Pugliese of Green Building United, discussed the intersection of urban development, sustainability, and affordability. The group advocated for the introduction of zoning code requirements that prioritize climate resiliency, particularly given Philadelphia’s aging housing stock and ongoing housing shortage. It was suggested that increasing homeowner education about existing initiatives, such as the Built to Last program, could alleviate financial burdens related to energy efficiency improvements.
Addressing Environmental Justice and Land Use, P.O.C. from EcoWURD and Judith Robinson from Susquehanna Clean Up/Pick Up led discussions on ensuring marginalized communities are represented in environmental policy decisions. Their suggestions included cultivating respect for local neighborhoods and their residents, as well as increasing transparency and representation within the City Council’s Committee on the Environment. “We just need one champion on the policy side,” said Terrill Haigler, also known as ‘Ya Fav Trashman.’
In discussions on Clothing and Textiles, led by Leslie Davidson and Rachel Higgins of PA Fibershed, participants explored the role of the textile industry in environmental sustainability. The platform proposed establishing co-ops to enable brands to share costs and deepen the cycle of sustainability in the fashion industry. Additionally, they suggested leveraging social media influencers to raise awareness about sustainable practices in textiles.
Finally, the Renewable Energy discussion, spearheaded by Colin Teague of The Energy Co-Op, focused on reducing regulatory barriers that hinder the progress of renewable energy initiatives in Pennsylvania. With the state ranking 41st in renewable energy consumption, participants emphasized the need for systemic changes to make renewable options more accessible and viable for consumers. Resident Monica Carty noted, “So many of these structures are set up to make it difficult for individual people to make good choices that are also cost-effective.”
Overall, while attendees agreed on the complexity of these issues, many emphasized that reducing costs could serve as a constructive starting point for addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by the community. Reflecting on the collective experience, one participant remarked on the empowerment gained by connecting with others passionate about sustainability, noting, “It was refreshing to be surrounded by people who are interested in making a change.”
The event not only facilitated problem-solving discussions but also fostered a sense of community among attendees. As participants left, they carried with them the hope and energy to contribute to Philadelphia’s ongoing sustainability journey. Green Philly will further explore these discussions in future content, aiming to keep the dialogue active and informative for the wider community.
Source: Noah Wire Services
