Exciting green advancements have been happening in Philadelphia. Many neighborhoods have started to increase sustainable initiatives from tree-planting efforts in Northern Liberties to increasing bike paths. But they’re about to increase even more:

Greenworks Philadelphia has been unveiled!

Greenworks Philadelphia

Mayor Michael Nutter announced recently that he’s going to make Philadelphia the Greenest city in America by 2015 – a very admirable goal. Greenworks Philadelphia is that plan formulated into a detailed document. “E” Goals in 5 areas – Energy, Environment, Equity, Economy and Engagement compile into over 100 initiatives for Philadelphia’s well being.

Greenworks Philadelphia initiatives include:

• Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 20%
• Divert 70% of solid waste from landfills
• Bring local food within 10 minutes of 75% of residents
• Lower city energy consumption by 30%
• Improve public transportation

Nutter explains in the Greenworks Plan that we must “dream big”, regardless of the current economy and financial problems. We can build on assets Philadelphia currently has, using less energy in buildings, increasing green jobs and products, and having tree-lined streets in every neighborhood.

Greenworks Philadelphia seems like an aggressive but admirable goal. What do you think of the new plan?

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Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia. View all posts by Julie Hancher