Often, it’s not what you know, it’s who you know…

Many socially-minded people come to me to ask how to get more involved in sustainability, whether they want to find an outlet for their sustainable passion, switch careers or learn more about what’s happening.

Since I started Green Philly 10 years ago, I’ve met passionate people turning pet projects into companies and find incredible careers. Others have grown nonprofits and community-led groups.

If you’re a newcomer hoping to learn more about sustainability, you’re in the right place. Use the below resources to meet other greenies and get involved.

7 Ways to Get Involved in Philly’s Green Scene

1. Attend eco-minded events. Our community calendar is the one-stop shop of local events from happy hours, volunteer events, panels and more. Check for upcoming events (and add yours, too!)
2. Join a sustainably-minded organization. Between Net Impact, Sustainable Business Network, Green Building United and more, there are hoards of professional organizations with events, networks, and opportunities to become involved. Find your niche and check out these orgs to get involved.
3. Join our Green Philly events. Did you know Green Philly hosts SustainPHL (the city’s annual awards ceremony and celebration), panels, film screenings, happy hours and more? Join our email list to be the first to know about upcoming events.
4. Join Facebook groups like Philly Green Changemakers, Women for a Sustainable Philadelphia, and Young Environmental Professionals Network to talk online.
5. Volunteer. Regardless of your passion, find a way to give back. Annual events like Philly Spring Cleanup Day or Love Your Park provide opportunities across the cities, while United by Blue sponsors cleanups in waterways. You’ll feel good and meet a few new people, too.
6. Attend a conference. Green Building United offers a symposium each May, and Wharton IGEL hosts conferences for students and professionals. Learn and get your feet wet locally.
7. Support small businesses and local foods. Whether you go to the city’s excellent farmers market or local boutiques, supporting small businesses helps the local economy. Plus, it’s easier to learn tips and tricks of a trade from a small business than those big box stores.

Readers, what other ways have you gotten involved locally? Tell us in the comments.

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Julie Hancher is Editor-in-Chief of Green Philly, sharing her expertise of all things sustainable in the city of brotherly love. She enjoys long walks in the park with local beer and greening her travels, cooking & cat, Sir Floofus Drake. View all posts by Julie Hancher