Categories: Philly

What is Greenworks Philadelphia?

Greenworks Philadelphia is Mayor Michael Nutter’s comprehensive plan to reach Philadelphia’s goal of becoming the greenest city in America by 2015. Released in Spring 2009, Greenworks Philadelphia is a 100 page document outlining sustainability goals including buildings, businesses, products, streets and more.

Greenworks Philadelphia includes 15 sustainability targets, with 166 initiatives in 5 different areas:

Energy
Environment
Equity
Economy
Engagement

The Mayors Office of Sustainability releases an annual progress report for the public. The 2013 progress report is available on the MOS website. As of 2013, 95% of the 166 initiatives were either underway or complete, exceeding waste diversion and vehicle mile reduction goals. Bicycle counts have increased over 100% on the Spruce & Pine Streets East-west corridor.

According to Mayor Nutter,

“Greenworks Philadelphia is a vision for how Philadelphia can and should seize the
moment, building upon the assets left to us by earlier Philadelphians and creating a better
future for ourselves, our children and generations still to come.”

Julie Hancher

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.