Stay in the know with Evanston’s leading source of community news! Join over 10,000 Evanstonians already receiving the RoundTable newsletter each morning. Already a subscriber? Simply close this popup. Or, submit your email to prevent future displays on this device.
Earth Week & Climate Action in Evanston
Editor’s note: Earth Day is Wednesday, April 22nd, and Earth Week activities extend from this weekend through April 26th. In honour of Earth Week, Environment Editor Wendy Pollock is leading a special edition newsletter focused on climate action. (A regular newsletter will return this Sunday.)
Good Friday morning, Evanston. Public officials celebrated the completion of the Robert Crown Community Center’s rooftop solar system on Thursday. These panels are projected to supply a third of the center’s electrical needs for years to come, at no cost to taxpayers – a perfect start to Earth Week! The week kicks off Saturday with a celebration from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Unitarian Church of Evanston, 1330 Ridge Ave. Check out a preview of the week’s events.
It’s been a significant year for environmental awareness. While federal environmental protections have faced challenges, Evanstonians remain dedicated to promoting sustainability. Bill McKibben aptly described solar energy as “a benign, indeed, a beautiful way to produce energy, energy from heaven, not from hell.”
Expanding Solar Energy in Evanston
Following suit, the Unitarian Church of Evanston and Northminster Presbyterian joined Immanuel Lutheran in installing rooftop solar systems last year. Evanston Township High School is also exploring solar options as part of its commitment to a green new deal. Efficiency measures and hot water heat pumps have already yielded substantial savings, according to John Crawford, Director of Operations and Sustainability.
Homeowners are also embracing solar energy, with Libby Hill reporting only one instance of paying for extra electricity since her system was activated. More importantly, she feels empowered knowing she’s contributing to the transition towards renewable energy.
Community Initiatives & Sustainable Living
Local activists are sharing ideas for climate resolutions, from reducing car usage and meat consumption to proactively planning for energy-efficient appliance replacements. To combat climate anxiety, Ashvin Veligandla of Climate Action Evanston suggests spending time in nature, and even “plogging” – jogging while picking up litter.
Climate Action Evanston coaches are offering guidance on energy savings and home electrification at the library and the farmers market. Kelly Fidei shared her positive experience with a heat pump, which also lowered her winter heating costs. Leslie Shad provided practical advice on selecting and caring for shade trees to maximize their benefits.
Reducing waste is also crucial. The city’s expanded composting options, the Repair Cafe, and hard-to-recycle collection events all contribute to this effort. Evanston was the first Illinois community to adopt a building performance standard aimed at reducing climate-heating emissions. The RoundTable continues to keep readers informed about the Healthy Buildings Ordinance.
Preparing for Climate Change Impacts
Climate change-fueled weather extremes are already here, demanding preparation. The city’s Public Services Bureau is working to maintain open streets during increasingly erratic winter conditions, and emergency managers are preparing for stormy summers. The updated Stormwater Master Plan is a key tool, with engineer Dick Lanyon tracking the city’s plans and new stormwater systems at Northwestern’s Ryan Field.
Natural areas like the Clark Street Beach Bird Sanctuary and Harbert-Payne Park help absorb and hold stormwater, highlighting the benefits of naturalized landscaping. Locally grown produce and food security are also vital components of climate resilience. Edible Evanston is expanding its Eggleston Park food forest, and Evanston Grows will begin planting its new 1-acre Elks Park farm in June.
Addressing Environmental Equity
A recent Environmental Equity Investigation, accepted by City Council, identified housing, transit, and trees as recurring concerns. The waste transfer station on Church Street, a long-standing issue in the historically Black neighborhood, is also under scrutiny. Residents have pleaded for its closure.
Citizen Science & Inspiring Perspectives
Evanston’s commitment to science is evident in citizen science projects tracking air quality (an increasing concern due to wildfire smoke) and bat populations. These initiatives engage residents in data gathering and provide valuable insights. The image of Earth from the Artemis II mission evoked memories of the Apollo 8 mission, reminding us of our planet’s fragility.
As Frank Borman recalled, Earth was the only colorful object in the universe, emphasizing the need to protect our limited resources. This vision continues to inspire environmental activists. Studies show that people are worried about climate change but feel they need to be convinced they can make a difference. The RoundTable remains committed to covering these crucial issues.
Support Local Journalism: From day one, the RoundTable’s mission has been to provide unbiased, in-depth reporting about the Evanston community. We need your help to continue investing in high-quality journalism. Please consider supporting our efforts and sharing the newsletter with your friends!
Evanston RoundTable
1514 Elmwood Avenue, Suite 2
Evanston, Illinois 60201
847.864.7741
