Environment & Sustainability

Coverage of green innovations, and climate and environment issues and developments, especially those told by local voices and that offer solutions for community concerns.

Year-round produce cultivates employment, food access, and economy in Michigan

Innovative methods in growing and preserving Michigan food boost the local food economy--and not just during traditional growing seasons. See how Michigan businesses capitalize on farm-quality produce year-round.

Latest in Environment & Sustainability
Why a store on the corner doesn’t always mean healthy food on the table

In Michigan cities, corner grocery stores don’t always increase access to healthy produce. In Detroit and Flint, some researchers are taking a closer look at customer service as a barrier to food access.

Michigan food hubs make hospital food and the local food economy healthier

In Battle Creek and Kalamazoo, food hubs are getting locally-grown foods into the cafeterias and onto the trays of Bronson Hospital. At the same time, they’re supporting local farming economies and healthy communities.

How three Michigan groups use food to connect to culture

From Grand Rapids to Sault Ste. Marie to Detroit, Michigan organizations and activists are tapping into the value of community gardens, culturally relevant dishes and local resources to build community.

In early childhood centers, food education is hands-on

Some Michigan early childhood centers teach children the value of fresh food through hands-on gardening. From hoophouse to garden bed, these centers are planting the seeds of healthy eating for kids and their families.

Connecting customers with local farm fresh food is the job of the Michigan food hub

In Michigan, food hubs increase consumer access to fresh produce, and help farmers build a sustainable business model. While they all have similar goals, no two food hubs are alike. We found out why.

Video: The time the dogs tracked turtles at the Portman Preserve

How many box turtles are there in the Portman Preserve? Specially trained Spaniels help with the calculations.

WMU business students invite public to help clean up the beach

More than 5,000 metric tons of plastic went into Lake Michigan in 2016. WMU business students are doing something about it.

Ubuntu: When creating opportunity means giving back

Mattawan-based nonprofit Ubuntu Goods sells Fair Trade products that benefit women in third world countries and lots of nonprofits locally and across the U.S.

Sprout BC expands into retail end of the fresh food business

This spring, Sprout BC entered into a partnership with the City of Springfield to use the space that had been a farmers market. Here's how it fits into the plan.

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