Regional View

Jackson Meadow in Marine on St. Croix - Building a Sustainable Community
The Jackson Meadow housing development in Marine on St. Croix is an excellent example of how new housing developments can successfully incorporate community visioning and principles of sustainability. more info
Pedestrian Crosswalk Case Studies: Richmond, VA; Buffalo, NY; Stillwater, MN
A before and after evaluation of crosswalk markings was conducted in 3 cities in the US. Pedestrian and motorist behavior was observed. more info
Phillips Eco-Enterprise Center
(PEEC) is one of the nation's first comprehensive green office and manufacturing facilities, opened in 1999. This Minneapolis project's developer is the Green Institute, a nonprofit committed to urban development through sustainable enterprise. more info
The power of one: What caring can accomplish
One woman's love for her place leveraged a neighborhood to improve a park, strengthen community bonds, build skills and deepen roots. more info
Wheeling Township and Nerstrand -- Landmark of the Past Symbol of the Future
A group of local residents mobilized to purchase and preserve a plot of land near a state forest. By mobilizing citizens and other interested parties, the group purchased the land and restored part of it to its natural state of prairie and oak savannah. The 110-acre plot will be preserved as open space for future generations to enjoy due to the efforts of these citizens. more info

Resource Directory

"Enviro-Show" with Tricia & The Toonies
Entertaining and educational program on protecting the environment.... more info
"Waste is Preventable, Not Inevitable..."
The Twin Cities Free Market -- the first web based materials exchange program in the nation -- currently has thousands of Twin Cities residents visit each month.... more info
$25 Million for Biking & Walking
The St. Paul-based non-profit Transit for Livable Communities was chosen in September, 2005 to lead a new federal pilot transportation project providing the Twin Cities Metro Area with $25 million over four years.... more info
2003 Governor's Awards for Pollution Prevention
Awards were presented in mid-November 2003 to six organizations and companies which demonstrated excellence in waste and pollution prevention.... more info
2004 Governor's Awards for Pollution Prevention
Awards were presented in October 2004 to honor superior environmental achievement by Minnesota's businesses, institutions, and public agencies.... more info
2006 Governor's Awards for Pollution Prevention
The annual Governor's Awards for Excellence in Waste and Pollution Prevention and the Governor's MnGREAT! Awards (Minnesota Government Reaching Environmental Achievements Together) honor superior environmental achievement by Minnesota's businesses, institutions, and public agencies.... more info
2030 Regional Development Framework
The Metropolitan Council's 2030 Regional Development Framework, the overall growth and development plan for the region, was adopted January 14, 2004.... more info
7-SIGMA Incorporated - case study of a business working with its neighboring community
The Longfellow Community Council partnered with a neighborhood manufacturer to assist the company to expand its production without expanding its physical plant.... more info
A Guide to Bicycle Transportation in the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area: The Processes, The Players, The Potential
This report describes the potential for improving bicycle transportation in the Twin Cities metropolitan area, identifies the common barriers and limitations to bike transportation, and provides an overview of the organizations involved.... more info
Access to Growing Job Centers in the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area
This article investigates job growth, job deconcentration, and commuting patterns in the Twin Cities during the 1990s.... more info
Accessory Dwelling Units
ADUs, also known as granny-flats, auxiliary apartments, garden cottages or carriage houses, are additional living units that have separate kitchen, sleeping and bathroom facilities, attached or detached from the primary residential unit on a single-family lot. ... more info
Antique Woodworks
Antique Woodworks offers reclaimed wood products including: flooring, countertops, bar tops, fireplace mantels, furniture, hand-hewn beams, barn siding, and complete buildings.... more info
Apartment Recycling in St. Paul - case study of solid & toxic waste reduction
Description of how the apartment recycling program in St. Paul grew from serving 12 buildings to serving over 1000 buildings.... more info
Archithesis - Sustainable Building Design Services
Archithesis.net is an architectural firm specializing in the practice of sustainable design principles involved in residential, commercial and institutional building projects.... more info
ARROW Awards for Reduction and Recycling of Waste
ARROW awards are offered for businesses and other organizations in Apple Valley, Burnsville and Eagan in recognition of efforts that reduce or reuse waste, recycle, or buy or sell recycled products.... more info
Automated Logic - Twin Cities: Energy Management and Building Automation Solutions
Integrates environmental, energy, lighting, HVAC, security and safety systems into building automation systems to give building managers global access to facility information - any place at any time. ... more info
Awarenessideas.com - A Division of Flexi Display
Awarenessideas.com is your resource for energy conservation, recycling, safety and promotional marketing awareness materials.... more info
Baltix Furniture, Inc. -- Sustainable furniture solutions
Baltix Furniture, Inc. is a designer and manufacturer of green/sustainable office furniture solutions. Our EcoBuzz line of sustainable workstations is competitively priced, durable, mobile, attractive, flexible, and manufactured using the highest quality eco-friendly materials. We also offer a full line of supporting products including file cabinets, tables, and shelving. Baltix also has experience in custom projects using our expertise in sustainable materials. "It doesn't have to cost more to be green!"... more info
Bioengineered Stormwater Runoff
The Standish Ericsson Neighborhood Association (SENA) wetland project in south Minneapolis was completed in 1997.... more info
Blue Sky Guide: Local Coupons + Ideas for Living Well in the Twin Cities
Blue Sky Guide is a one-of-a-kind resource - a coupon book, directory and a source of ideas and inspiration. It's your annual EcoMetro guide to living well and having fun in the Twin Cities metro region. Save hundreds of dollars while exploring the community and supporting local, sustainable businesses.... more info
Buckthorn web sites
This is a comprehensive listing of web sites related to European Buckthorn.... more info
Building Biology
Building Biology began over thirty years ago in Germany as "Bau-biologie."... more info
Building for Transit in the Metropolitan Area
The Metropolitan Council offers principles and rules of thumb for transit-oriented development.... more info
Burnsville Sustainability Plan
The City of Burnsville completed a year-long sustainability review in 2007 and developed 14 priority areas for sustainability improvements called Best Practices Areas.... more info
Business Assistance Manual
Manual to help business associations, chambers of commerce and other persons who are not technically trained to help link their local businesses to experts on decreasing wastes and costs.... more info
Campus Sustainability Funds
Use this guidebook and its author to structure funding streams for clean energy projects.... more info
Car Sharing
Car sharing provides member-users or members-owners in urban areas with access to a varied, geographically distributed fleet of well-maintained vehicles (generally newer, more fuel-efficient and less polluting) at minimal cost.... more info
Case Studies of Sustainability in Rural Minnesota Communities
Case studies have been written sharing the stories of eight Greater Minnesota Communities that are working toward sustainability.... more info
Cedar Lake Park Association
The CLPA is an organization dedicated to nurturing nature and community.... more info
Center for Energy and Environment
The Center for Energy and Environment (CEE) is an independent, nonprofit organization that works to promote the responsible and efficient use of natural and economic resources.... more info
Center for Neighborhoods
The Minneapolis-based Center for Neighborhoods offers an urban counterpoint to Minnesota Rural Partners. The Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing urban neighborhood vitality.... more info
Choices for Sustainable Living Discussion Circles: Materials available from the Northwest Earth Institute
The Northwest Earth Institute (www.nwei.org) offers seven discussion courses on sustainability, simplicity and ecological issues. These are wonderful resources for those wishing to build community, inspire action, and engage in dialogue with others around important issues.... more info
Church Construction Guided by Sustainability
A Minneapolis church has built a "green" Parish Center.... more info
Cities for Climate Protection in Minnesota
Duluth, Minneapolis, St. Paul, Hennepin and Ramsey Counties are members of the Cities for Climate Protection (CCP) campaign.... more info
Citizens for Personal Rapid Transit (PRT)
Web site for Citizens for PRT, a nonprofit group promoting an innovative, cost-effective approach to transit using new technology developed at the University of Minnesota.... more info
CLIMB Theatre
CLIMB is a non-profit educational theatre company based in the Twin Cities. We use programming that specifically addresses environmental issues: barrel burning prevention, recycling, and global climate change. CLIMB travels to schools and communities delivering our message in a fun and interactive way.... more info
Cohousing: Neighborly, Affordable, Low-Impact Living
Cohousing is a specific residential building form, and also a type of intentional community. Resources are available to learn about cohousing in Minnesota and elsewhere.... more info
Communicating Green Business Best Practices
More than 40 downtown businesses in Excelsior, MN have joined UPonGREEN, a for-profit marketing program designed to make environmental claims sensible, transparent, cost-effective, and attractive to consumers.... more info
Communities Magazine
Communities magazine is the primary resource for information, issues, and ideas about intentional communities in North America - from urban co-ops to co-housing groups to eco-villages to rural communes.... more info
Community Design Group
This firm's multi-disciplinary approach joins urban planning, architectural design, civil engineering, public health, communications and public participation services to solid economic development and policy-making experience. ... more info
Community Homestead - Community-Supported Agriculture on the St. Croix River
A non-traditional community-supported agriculture business in Osceola, Wisconsin provides organic eggs, dairy and meat, vegetables, flowers and herbs as well as working with people with special needs.... more info
Community Land Trusts
CLTs use a sustainable financial model to help provide affordable housing for low and moderate-income households.... more info
Community POWER (Partners on Waste Education and Reduction) Grants
Grants of up to $12,000 are available for waste/toxicity reduction and recycling projects in the Twin Cities area. Non-environmental organizations are encouraged to apply.... more info
Commuter Choice Awards
Since 1990, the Commuter Choice Awards have recognized companies, schools and individuals for their innovative ways in developing, implementing and supporting commuter transportation programs. These programs have helped improve the quality of life in the Twin Cities metro area by reducing pollution and congestion on roadways and making employees' daily commutes more enjoyable.... more info
Congestion-fighting Strategies Analyzed
Computer modeling shows congestion would be worse without buses and other strategies.... more info
Conservation Development Framework for the Metro Area
Developed in June 2006 by the Urban Land Institute's Minnesota Chapter, working with the Regional Council of Mayors.... more info
Constructed Wetland for Housing Development
Fields of St. Croix is a conservation-based community development constructed in Lake Elmo, Washington County starting in 1997.... more info
Construction & Demolition Recycling
South Metro Sort and Recycle started Minnesota's first significant construction and demolition (C&D) recycling facility in Shakopee, MN.... more info
Converting Brownfields to Green Space
A report describing the benefits, challenges and opportunities of redeveloping brownfield sites into green space. The report uses research and case studies.... more info
Cooperative Print Solutions - FSC Certified Printing and Mailing
Cooperative Print Solutions is a Minneapolis-based printing firm providing sheetfed printing, web printing and mailing services, that is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.... more info
Creating Bicycle Transportation Networks: A Guidebook
This guide provides information on planning model for bicycle transportation in cities, suburbs, and small towns. Types of bicycle facilities are described. A step-by-step for planning bicycle transportation is provided.... more info
Cynthia Krieg Memorial Watershed Stewardship Fund grants - from Minnehaha Creek Watershed District
Grants are available for small community service educational and water quality projects in the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District.... more info
Dakota County "Going Green Together"
Dakota County and its 12 major cities have formed a High Performance Partnership that is working on sustainability and climate change, among other joint actions and projects.... more info
Daylighting, Greywater Recycling, Recycled-Content in County Building
Hennepin County's 242,000 square foot Public Works Facility in Medina, which opened in summer 1998, includes many "green" architecture features.... more info
Deconstructed Mall
An arts group deconstructed Minneapolis' former Conservatory shopping center to renovate a 19th century factory.... more info
Do It Green! Minnesota - annual 2009 Do It Green! Magazine now available
Do It Green! Minnesota works to educate Minnesotans about green and sustainable living and to promote building healthy, local communities through an annual printed guidebook, comprehensive web site, and community workshops.... more info
Dovetail Partners
Information about Dovetail Partners' activities and accomplishments, and announcements about events, issues, and information related to sustainable forestry.... more info
Dream of Wild Health
This collective effort to grow out ancient seeds saved for generations by Native Americans. Some of these seeds are 800 to 2000 years old, and they contain within them the key to a healthy future and rich cultural past.... more info
DuPont Community Involvement Program
Grants are available from DuPont to improve the quality of life and enhance the vitality of the communities in which it operates by supporting community sustainability efforts.... more info
E2 City Homes: LEED Gold
In fall 2007 the U.S. Green Building Council awarded E2 City Homes the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for Homes (LEED H) Gold Certification. That made E2 is one of three LEED H Certified projects in Minnesota.... more info
EarthSave Twin Cities
EarthSave promotes food choices that are healthy for people and the planet.... more info
Eco Education
Eco Education is a Twin Cities nonprofit that provides urban environmental service-learning and teacher professional development. Eco Education's programs actively involve youth, stakeholders of our future, in participating in the sustainability of our urban ecosystems, both natural and built.... more info
Eco-friendly Radio Show - "Everything Green"
A local radio show devoted to discussing green living and eco-friendly items.... more info
Ecolab Foundation
Ecolab invests in organizations that help prepare children to grow up as contributing members of society.... more info
Ecological Assistance from the DNR
The MN DNR has ecologists who can assist with comprehensive planning, the development of zoning and subdivision ordinances, parks and open space planning, and protection and stewardship of public and private lands.... more info
EcoMom Alliance
A social and educational support group for mothers, focusing on self, home and the planet.... more info
Eco-Team Models for Sustainable Living
Using social models from the world of support groups come five programs for helping groups of people increase the chances of acting on their environmental interest and learning.... more info
Energy Efficiency and Conservation Resource Groups
This is a list of Twin Cities groups, and city and county departments working on green energy production and conservation.... more info
Energy Efficiency Assistance from Xcel Energy & Minnesota Power
Helpful assistance is offered by Minnesota utilities in conserving energy, with programs of Xcel Energy and Minnesota Power outlined here.... more info
Energy Efficient Schools In Elk River
The Elk River School District has taken steps to become more energy efficient, as part of a larger Energy City program in Elk River.... more info
Environmental Initiatives - award-winning case studies from 2003
Case studies of winners of awards in 2003 from the Minnesota Environmental Initiative illustrate collaborative approaches to environmental improvement.... more info
Environmental Monitoring Data for the Twin Cities
The Environmental Information Management System (EIMS) is a system for providing timely and reliable information for environmental planning and decision-making for the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area (TCMA) of Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota.... more info
Environmental Sustainability in St. Paul
A 2005 report written by senior students at Macalester College assessed environmental sustainability activities in the city of St. Paul, and made recommendations regarding how the city might improve its sustainability performance.... more info
ErWeb - The most comprehensive environmental directory on the web
ErWeb is home to some of the most advanced database technology available and is using this technology to create the most comprehensive environmental database online.... more info
Etica Fair Trade
Etica's mission is to provide consumers with beautiful Fair Trade merchandise that promote sustainable livelihoods throughout the world.... more info
European-Inspired Green Condominium in Minneapolis
A 13-unit housing development in Minneapolis contains green building elements as well as European styling.... more info
Event Greening at the State Fairgrounds
Organizers of annual Living Green Expo take and document comprehensive steps to reduce the impact of the event on the environment.... more info
Field Guides to the Native Plant Communities of Minnesota: The Eastern Broadleaf Forest Province; The Laurentian Mixed Forest Province; and the Prairie Parkland and Tallgrass Aspen Parklands Provinces
This three-volume series of statewide field guides organized by Minnesota's four ecological provinces is intended to promote better understanding of the patterns and processes that characterize and influence Minnesota's vegetation.... more info
First LEED-Certified Restaurant in Minnesota
Red Stag, a Northwoods-style supper club constructed in Minneapolis in 2007, is built to LEED standards.... more info
Fortin Consulting Inc.
Fortin Consulting is an environmental consulting firm. We are a women-owned small business. We can help you protect your natural resources & give you the tools & support to do so. From restoration to water quality, we will help you achieve your goals.... more info
Fridley Printer uses 100% Wind Power
Johnson Printing & Packaging Corporation announced March 1, 2006 that wind power now generates 100% of the electrical power needed to operate their 130,000 square foot facility. John Roberts Co. is also a wind purchaser.... more info
Friends of Bassett Creek
Description of volunteer stream restoration and the watershed's master planning efforts.... more info
Friends of Birch Island Woods
Friends of Birch Island Woods is a land conservation organization based in Eden Prairie and Minnetonka.... more info
Galactic Pizza: A Small Green Business
A pizza delivery service flourishes by word-of-mouth (and no PR budget) about its quirky business model: a costumed crew driving electric vehicles selling seasonal, organic fare.... more info
Gannett Foundation
The Gannett Foundation provides support to nonprofit organizations in Minneapolis and St. Cloud.... more info
Garden Farme
Garden Farme, located in Ramsey, MN was started by Peter Seim in 1998 who was interested in practicing sustainable agriculture while applying the principles of Community Supported Agriculture (CSA).... more info
Gardening Matters
Gardening Matters works to promote and preserve community gardening throughout the Twin Cities metro area by connecting community gardeners to each other and to the communities in which they reside.... more info
Gardening, Urban Gardening, Parks & Agriculture & Forestry, and Open Space Resource Groups
This is a listing of state-wide and Twin Cities community gardening, urban agriculture and forestry, and open space organizations.... more info
Gardens of Eagan
Atina and Martin Diffley have earned a lot of loyal customers for their organic produce.... more info
Grants for Wealth-Creation Strategies
The F.B. Heron Foundation awards grants to programs in urban and rural communities engaged in wealth-creation strategies, including home ownership, enterprise development, access to capital, quality child care, and community development.... more info
Green Buildings: Adding Environmental Features to Commercial Projects
A 26-page booklet describing the process for adding green features to a building late in the design process.... more info
Green Elementary School in Elk River
Westwood Elementary School in Elk River is a model for green building practices, and is the first building in Minnesota to earn LEED certification.... more info
Greener State Fleets
The State of Minnesota, Metro Transit and the Metropolitan Airports Commission will expand their renewable fuels use and increase the number of cleaner, fuel efficient vehicles on the road.... more info
Greywater Reuse Systems and Code
Water from showers, sinks and washing machines can be reclaimed for reuse - where potable water isn't necessary - in irrigating landscapes and in supplying water for toilets. ... more info
Growth Pressures on Sensitive Natural Areas
A colorful 2006 report by the MN DNR and Ameregis assesses how urban growth in the Twin Cities Metro Area and 6 central Minnesota counties may impact sensitive natural areas in the region.... more info
Guide to Using Natural Resource Information
A booklet, on-line guide and CD that provide guidance and a process for conducting a natural resource inventory and integrating the results into planning decisions.... more info
Hang Family
The Hang family immigrated to the United States in 1976 and worked very hard together, first picking cucumbers in Wisconsin, then renting farmland in St. Paul, where they sold their produce at the St. Paul Farmer's Market.... more info
Health Club in White Bear Lake Goes Green
White Bear Racquet and Swim (acquired by Life Time Fitness in September 2007) has worked to become a sustainable company, and has implemented a variety of environmental innovations that have enhanced the club's profitability and appeal.... more info
Hennepin County Active Living Resolution
Active living programs seek to increase the routine physical activity of citizens through changes in community design and land uses, public policies and communication strategies.... more info
Highway 81 Corridor TOD Planning
A study that links physical and functional design, promotes downtown centers in each community (enhancement of existing centers) and discusses five place-making systems (natural, road, transit, land use, community).... more info
Home Exchange
Home Exchange Home Swap worldwide vacation travel - I stay in your home while you stay in mine - International home exchange holiday - and Vacation Rental service.... more info
HOURCAR: Car-Sharing in the Twin Cities
HOURCAR, a car-sharing program, is being coordinated by the Neighborhood Energy Connection in the Twin Cities.... more info
How Household Lifestyles Relate to Land-Use and Transportation Planning
A 9-page research summary helps readers to learn about whether changes in land-use patterns alone can induce people to drive less and walk more.... more info
HRK Foundation
Grants are available to promote healthy families and communities.... more info
Hydrokinetic Water Turbine at Hastings
A hydrokinetic turbine suspended December 2008 in the Mississippi River at Hastings is the first commercial example in the nation of harvesting water-current energy without a dam. ... more info
Hydropower: Certification of Low Impact Facilities
This Low Impact Hydropower Certification Program was established by the non-profit American Rivers, with assistance from the hydropower industry, government agencies and power marketers.... more info
InformeDesign
InformeDesign is a research and communication tool for designers, and this web site houses an extensive collection of research summaries.... more info
Innovative Power Systems Inc. - A renewable energy technologies company
Innovative Power System Inc. is a Twin Cities full service renewable energy technology company established in 1991 providing statewide services for design and installations of photovoltaic, wind, thermal and passive renewable energy systems.... more info
Jedlicka Design, Ltd.
Eco-Packaging Design for the World Market.... more info
Kasota Pond & Bridal Veil Creek Natural Resources Inventory
Residents of St. Anthony Park conducted a Natural Resources Inventory and Planning Initiative.... more info
KLEENZ L.L.C.
KLEENZ is a Twin Cities locally owned and operated company that uses green cleaning methods for commercial and residential customers.... more info
Landfill Gas Technical Assistance
Landfill sites in Minnesota have been developed to produce cost-effective methane, derived from the digestion of garbage, used to generate electricity.... more info
Landmark Decision to Protect Organic Farm
In September 2006 the Minnesota Pipe Line Company agreed to reroute an oil pipeline that would have crossed an organic farm.... more info
Lawn Mowers & Options - Clean Air Minnesota
Gasoline-powered lawn and garden equipment contributes to more than 5% of the Twin Cities' air pollution problem, and is being targeted by Clean Air Minnesota.... more info
LEED Bank: First in Minnesota
Midway Bank in St. Paul is planning a LEED certified green building completed in 2007, the first for a bank in Minnesota.... more info
LEED Building Standards for Minneapolis
At its July 21, 2006 meeting the Minneapolis City Council voted to use LEED standards in the planning, design, construction, and commissioning of all new or significantly renovated municipal facilities of 5,000 square feet or greater, financed by the City.... more info
LEED Grocery Stores in St. Paul and Minneapolis
A newly opened Cub Foods supermarket and the new home to Seward Co-op Grocery hope to become the first groceries in Minnesota to be certified at the LEED-Gold level under the U.S. Green Building Council's standards for environmentally sound construction. ... more info
LEED Platinum - Level Building in Maple Grove
In December 2006, Great River Energy started to build its new headquarters, which is to include an impressive number of green building features.... more info
LifeCycle Engineering Inc (Solar-Mechanical Engineering and Contracting Company)
A Minnesota-based mechanical and energy services provider.... more info
Lindbergh Foundation Grants
Grants are given to individuals working on projects that demonstrate a balance between technology and the environment.... more info
LinkerNoodle.com
LinkerNoodle is a local TwinCities/Minnesota web-directory of businesses and organizations that are Holistic, Organic, Healthy, Green, Environmental, Sustainable, Responsible, Community freindly.... more info
Livable Communities Project Descriptions
A descriptive listing is available of millions of dollars in grants awarded by the Metropolitan Council for community and economic development projects in the Twin Cities Metro Area that help to create livable communities.... more info
LiveGreenApts.com
Skally Management is a family-owned and operated real estate management company in business since 1975. Our historic buildings located throughout St. Paul, provide our residents comfortable, well-maintained apartments, while consistently implementing and identifying new Eco-Management practices. ... more info
Low Impact Development
The Dakota County Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) is committed to working with land owners, developers, and local units of government.... more info
Low Impact Development Pays
Low-impact development can result in advantages, such as lower development costs, less maintenance costs, more usable natural areas, thermal pollution reduction, and more phosphorus removal when compared to the traditional model of development.... more info
Mahtomedi Area Community Education
The Mahtomedi Area Community Education website includes links and information to events and educational programs in the Mahtomedi area. ... more info
McKnight Foundation Environmental Grants
Environmentally-related grants, most of which have a particular focus on protecting the environment of the Mississippi River basin, are awarded by the Minneapolis-based McKnight Foundation.... more info
Medicinal Herbs on the Urban Fringe
Renne Soberg of Lakeville began growing medicinal herbs as an alternate income source because of an increasing global demand for organically grown herbs and a concern for taking the pressure off of unsustainably harvested wild stands.... more info
Metro Greenways Funding
Funding and technical assistance is available from the Minnesota DNR for land acquisition and restoration in the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area.... more info
Metro Independent Business Alliance (Twin Cities)
MetroIBA is a Twin Cities nonprofit with a focus on preserving locally owned businesses.... more info
Metro Transit
Metro Transit is the transportation resource for the Twin Cities.... more info
Metropolitan Council Environmental Services
Metropolitan Council Environmental Services (MCES) exists to support the Council's mission by protecting the public health and environment and providing its customers efficient and effective water resources management.... more info
Metropolitan Council Livable Communities Grants
Grants are available for efforts promoting livable communities in the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area.... more info
Metropolitan Council Regional Development Framework
In 2004, the Metropolitan Council adopted a Regional Development Framework, which is the overall growth and development plan for the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area.... more info
Metropolitan Design Center
Research, education and assistance in the areas of urban design, landscape architecture, planning, and GIS is available for cities, civic groups and nonprofit organizations statewide.... more info
Midtown Greenway Coalition
The Midtown Greenway is a nonstop bicycle highway and walking path one block north of Lake Street in Minneapolis.... more info
Midwest Wind Finance, LLC
We provide equity and financing for wind turbine projects.... more info
Minneapolis Climate Change Micro Grants
The City of Minneapolis has provided small grants in 2007 and 2008 to public organizations that serve Minneapolis residents for climate change related projects.... more info
Minneapolis College of Art & Design - Online Sustainable Design Certificate
MCAD is offering online coursework leading to a Sustainable Design Certificate.... more info
Minneapolis Energy Proposals & Less-Toxic Cleaners
Minneapolis was working to adopt a number of expanded energy initiatives in 2007, and adopted environmentally preferable purchasing guidelines in 2006 for use of less-toxic cleaning products for city buildings.... more info
Minneapolis Environmental Report
This report provides a link to the City's overall environmental goal which states, "Preserve and enhance our natural and historic environment and promote a clean, sustainable Minneapolis."... more info
Minneapolis Lead Hazard Control Network
Description of the City's work to prevent lead and mold hazards for children, through education and remediation.... more info
Minneapolis Passes Resolution Promoting Organic Foods
The City of Minneapolis passed a resolution urging all City departments and agencies to include organic food vendors as an option.... more info
Minnesota Bicycle Transportation Planning, Maps and Design Guidelines
These guidelines provide information regarding design factors and maintenance of bikeways, the bicycle network planning process, on-road designs, paths, bridges and grade separations, traffic controls, and bike parking.... more info
Minnesota River e-mail Update
An e-newsletter on the river itself, its watersheds, pollutants, and some of the efforts underway to clean it up.... more info
Minnesota Sustainable Building Guidelines: Buildings, Benchmarks and Beyond (B3)
This web site serves as an online green design guide and rating system to educate and inform the design process on new and renovated buildings.... more info
Mississippi Corridor Neighborhood Coalition - The Upper River Master Plan
A group of neighborhoods in NE and SE Minneapolis is working to revitalize an industrialized section of the Mississippi River through planning, clean-ups and advocacy.... more info
Mississippi Gorge Stewards Project
Description of Friends of the Mississippi River's partnership with neighborhoods to protect and restore the Mississippi river gorge in the Twin Cities.... more info
Mississippi National River and Recreation Area (MNRRA) Ecology Data - free CD
Ecological data important for land use decisions for the 72-mile MNRRA river corridor is available in a free CD-ROM.... more info
Modern Streetcar Applications and Feasibility in Minneapolis
A December 2007 study prepared for the City of Minneapolis discusses the feasibility of returning streetcars to the city.... more info
Modular Office Solutions
Minneapolis Based Modular Office Solutions , Formerly Revest / Intra Spec Solutions, Remanufactures Steelcase and Herman Miller Systems in a facility which boasts many environmentally friendly manufacturing practices.... more info
Molly's Gardens
Molly's Gardens is an environmentally friendly garden and floral design service that services St. Paul, Minneapolis, and surrounding areas.... more info
Municipal Incentive for Energy Improvements in Buildings
Minneapolis offers a FAR premium (floor-area ratio bonus) for private investment in energy efficiency or for on-site renewable energy in downtown Minneapolis.... more info
Natural Built Home Store
Visit Natural Built Home in Minneapolis to shop for safe and sustainable green building supplies.... more info
Natural Closet Systems for Homes
Saratoga Closets of Minneapolis markets an exclusive green-line of closet systems, which are made entirely from recycled wood fiber that has no urea formaldehyde added during the manufacturing process.... more info
Neighborhood Activism: Assessing Industrial Impacts and a Green Village Initiative
The Southeast Como Improvement Association in Minneapolis prepared an inventory of the environmental impacts of the businesses located in or near the neighborhood, and has initiated an area-wide greening effort.... more info
Neighborhood Anaerobic Digester
Work toward a combined heat and power plant has started with a feasibility study and an organics collection program.... more info
Neighborhood Bus and Walking Maps
Colorful community maps were developed for several St. Paul neighborhoods to encourage residents to walk, bike and bus more.... more info
Neighborhood CleanSweeps in Minneapolis
This is a description of Minneapolis' Neighborhood CleanSweeps program.... more info
Neighborhood Sustainability Indicators
Out of what is believed to be the first U.S. effort to engage residents in defining indictors of sustainability for their neighborhood comes this 68-page educational booklet.... more info
Newspapers: Do They Use Recycled Content Paper?
Information is available about the percentage of recycled content used by Minnesota newspapers.... more info
North House Folk School
A beautiful Grand Marais setting for learning traditional folk arts and crafts that augments a person's pursuit of a more sustainable way of living.... more info
Northern Technologies International Corporation
Northern Technologies International Corporation is in the business of converting unique environmentally beneficial materials into value added products and services for industrial and consumer applications.... more info
Northfield Center for Sustainable Living
Northfield, MN has a permanent, independent organization devoted to matters of sustainability.... more info
Oakdale Green Building Program
A voluntary green building program, Generation Green, is administered by the City of Oakdale, MN.... more info
Office Building Pilot Project
During 1997 a number of toxicity, energy, water, and solid waste reductions were made in two large office buildings.... more info
On-Demand Ridesharing
The St. Paul Transportation Management Organization has brought the nation's first incentive-based ride network, a national web-based organization called NuRide, to the seven-county Twin Cities metro area. Also read about iPhone ridesharing software.... more info
Owens-Corning Air Permit Case Study
Volunteers from the Lind Bohanon neighborhood of Minneapolis worked toward a pollution prevention agreement with a local manufacturer.... more info
Paint the Pavement: Calming Traffic & Building Community
The Paint the Pavement initiative in St. Paul has painted the asphalt of two residential street intersections, therefore creating public space and slowing traffic.... more info
Patagonia Underwear Take-Back Program
The US clothing company Patagonia has launched one of the world's first garment take-back programs for Capilene base layer underwear.... more info
Pathways to a Sustainable Future
Minnesota 2050: Pathways to a Sustainable Future is a sustainability science research effort developed by the University of Minnesota's Sustainability Initiative in collaboration with the Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships.... more info
Phalen Corridor Initiative - Case Study from the Working with Industries for Win-Wins
The Phalen Corridor Initiative's mission is to coordinate a partnership to restore the physical, social and economic prosperity of Saint Paul's East Side.... more info
Phillips Eco-Enterprise Center (PEEC)
PEEC is a $5.3 million, 63,000 sq. ft. facility that houses 15-20 light manufacturing and office tenants, firms whose products and production processes have minimal environmental impacts.... more info
Pine to Prairie GIS User Group
The Pine to Prairie GIS User Group is open to anyone in Minnesota, the Dakotas and beyond that has an interest in GIS. Meetings are held quarterly in Fergus Falls, MN. The group also has a web site which features a Bulletin Board System (BBS), allowing users from across the state to participate.... more info
Planning for Open Space Conservation in Your Community
This 120-page how-to manual seeks to assist communities that want to undertake land protection initiatives. Topics covered include developing a conservation program, communication, draft ordinances, and more.... more info
Plastic Bag Recycling in the Twin Cities
Plastic bags can be recycled at numerous locations in the Twin Cities.... more info
Pollution Trading Permit & Biomass Energy
Rahr Malting increased nitrogen pollutant discharges from their plant but more than offset that increased pollution by more cheaply decreasing nitrogen pollution from surrounding farmland through improved farming practices.... more info
Recycled Paper and Products Buying Co-op
Individuals, business and other Twin Cities' organizations can place orders for 100% postconsumer recycled and chlorine-free office paper at a reduced cost through Eureka Recycling of St. Paul.... more info
Recycled-Content Paint -- promotion via municipal resolution
Governmental organizations in Minnesota are encouraged to increase the use of reprocessed and recycled-content paints.... more info
Reducing Energy Costs in Minnesota Local Governments: Case Studies and PowerPoint Presentations
Case studies contained in a 2008 State Auditor's report and the 2008 League of Minnesota Cities' annual report, and presentations built upon these.... more info
Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships
The Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships program is a research and outreach partnership between Minnesota citizens and University of Minnesota faculty, staff and students.... more info
Resource Organizations for Neighborhoods Interested in Working with Industries
This is a listing of mostly Twin Cities resource groups and consultants assisting neighborhoods to work with local industries for win-win solutions.... more info
Resourceful Waste Management Guide
This guide is designed to help businesses and citizens responsibly manage items that are beyond the basic recycling services.... more info
Responsible Minnesota Business
A non-profit organization promoting healthy, sustainable businesses and communities. ... more info
Restore your Yard & Shore: One-Stop Shop
A Twin Cities web site that makes it easy to buy and plant native plants, plan rain gardens and restore shoreline.... more info
RethinkRecycling.com - Go-to Guide for Waste and Recycling in the Twin Cities
Rethinkrecycling.com was launched in 2003 to help citizens living in the Twin Cities metro area understand the urgent need to make environmentally-responsible purchasing and disposal decisions in their daily lives.... more info
River of Renewal, A Vision for Reconnecting Communities to a Living Upper Mississippi River
The purpose of the 61-page report published by the nonprofit American Rivers in 2001 is to provide a vision for Upper Mississippi River communities to reconnect to the river and become more active stewards to protect their watershed's unique habitats and the river as a whole.... more info
River-Friendly Faith Communities / Farmer Program
Beginning in spring 1998, churches and other faith-based communities located in the MN River watershed are taking spiritual, educational and environmental actions under 6 categories.... more info
Safe Healthy and Efficient Buildings Resource Groups
This is a listing of safe, healthy and efficient buildings resource groups in the Twin Cities.... more info
Safe Routes to School Assistance, Funding, Model Plan
The Minneapolis Safe Routes to School Strategic Plan is a very readable, visually attractive 34-page report useful for promoting a local Safe Routes initiative. ... more info
Small Town & Rural Design Assistance
Two University of Minnesota centers serve as points-of-entry to the University resources for working with people to preserve, improve, and protect rural and small town landscapes, cultures and communities.... more info
Solar Building Case Studies in the Twin Cities
This guidebook contains 19 one-page descriptions of homes, businesses and institutional buildings in the Twin Cities that are using solar technologies and other green building practices.... more info
Solar Heating and Solar Electric Tours & Workshops
Minneapolis-based Innovative Power Systems offers free workshops and tours about solar energy for media professionals and business owners/managers, and for the general public in groups of 20 people or more.... more info
Solid & Toxic Waste Reduction Resource Groups in the Twin Cities
This is a listing of solid waste / toxic reduction resources, with a Twin Cities focus.... more info
Source Food Technology
Rick Riley of Source Food Technology has developed an innovative, new cholesterol-free shortening called Appetize benefitting health-conscious consumers and creating a unique market niche for Rick.... more info
Sprawl & Its Costs - Resources
The economic, social and environmental costs of sprawl in the Minnesota and other states have been documented in a number of studies and articles.... more info
St. Anthony Park Buckthorn Busters
Description of neighborhood volunteer effort to remove buckthorn.... more info
St. Paul Adopts a Sustainable Building Policy
This policy requires all new private development projects receiving more than $200,000 in city funds to achieve a designated level in one of seven green building rating systems.... more info
St. Paul Adopts Citizen Environmental Recommendations
Policy goals are zero waste, healthy local food systems, smarter / cleaner energy, greening the built environment, green space, and clean water stewardship.... more info
St. Paul Resolution on GE and Organic Foods
The City Council of St. Paul has adopted a resolution about genetically engineered and organic foods.... more info
St. Paul's LEED Police Building
The Western District Police Building will be the first City-owned building following new green building guidelines.... more info
St. Paul's River Development Vision
An short document that summarizes a development framework for the city.... more info
Stormwater Best Management Practices
Four manuals written for Minnesota aimed at improving land use and the local ecology, and cutting costs and pollution.... more info
Stormwater Management Installations
A list of sites (including contact people) where one can observe more ecological design regarding stormwater management.... more info
Stormwater Runoff Campaign
A water quality protection educational campaign from the Metro WaterShed Partners and resources from the EPA.... more info
Strategeries: Nonprofit business directions and earned income fundamentals
Strategeries is a consulting firm in MN specializing in nonprofit business fundamentals including: financial forecasts, presentational financials, business plans, organizational assessments, performance metric development and start-ups.... more info
Study Quantifies Huge Costs of Twin Cities Traffic Congestion
A 2005 study by the Texas Transportation Institute (TTI) indicates that traffic tie-ups cost $975 million in lost time and fuel in 2003.... more info
Sustainability at the University of Minnesota
The University of Minnesota is taking steps to integrate sustainability into its educational and operational activities. ... more info
Sustainability Indicators in Minnesota and Beyond
Detail on Minneapolis's indicators and other resources. ... more info
Sustainable Media
Copywriting and environmentally-themed digital photography promoting sustainability.... more info
Sustainable St. Paul
The City of St. Paul prepares an annual report and offers annual awards to honor outstanding achievements of individuals, businesses and organizations that are protecting and restoring the environment of St. Paul.... more info
SustainableMarketing.com
SustainableMarketing.com aims to be a leading Internet resource for green, organic, CSR, and cause-related marketing information and services.... more info
Sustainably Designed Park Building in Dakota County
A Dakota County facility aims to be an environmental education showcase of how human use of a site can be balanced against preserving a park's natural amenities and lowering the costs of the building.... more info
Svoboda Ecological Resources & GPS Innovations
Provides quality environmental, digital aerial imaging, GPS, and GIS services.... more info
Taxi 2000 Corporation
Web site for Taxi 2000, a corporation spun off by the University of Minnesota to promote an innovative new Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) technology developed at the U.... more info
TendHer Fields Farm
The hard work and labor that Andrea Richardson and Nikki Nau put into their fields pays off, as CSA members share in their bountiful harvest. This working partnership has yielded not only a strong sense of community but excellent produce as well.... more info
The Climate Project Speaker
An Oakdale environmental specialist has been trained by Al Gore to present a climate change slideshow at no charge to faith-based groups, and other citizen or business groups.... more info
The Nest
A retail store promoting the ideals of sustainability and conservation by selling eco-friendly products.... more info
The ReUse Center
The ReUse Center, a program of the Green Institute, sells salvaged, reusable building materials such as doors, windows, plumbing fixtures, and cabinets, which equates to keeping hundreds of thousands of tons of reusable construction materials out of landfills.... more info
Top 10 Green Schools
The national organization The Green Guide gave honors to the top 10 (and honorable mention to 10 more)environmentally committed K-12 schools in the country (including two in Minnesota).... more info
Top U.S. Green Cities include the Twin Cities
Minneapolis and St. Paul ranked high in several rankings, including a 2006 report among 251 metropolitan areas nationwide as green cities.... more info
Toxic Hazards & Your Community
A free, 1 to 3 hour community education class about reducing local toxic chemicals is tailored to and taught in neighborhoods.... more info
Traffic Radio Sponsorship Opportunities - on Jazz88
For those seeking an effective outlet to build awareness about sustainable community initiatives and projects, Traffic Radio on KBEM sponsorship offers a unique and targeted opportunity to reach Twin Cities commuters.... more info
Transit For Livable Communities Fact Sheets
St. Paul-based Transit for Livable Communities is a non-profit organization that works to improve the quality of life in Minnesota communities through a balanced transportation system that encourages transit, walking, biking, and transit-oriented development.... more info
Transit-Oriented Development Guidebook
Provides implementation details specific to Minnesota for creating vibrant land use patterns supportive of transit ridership, walking, pedestrian activity and the needs of daily life.... more info
Transit-Oriented Development in Minneapolis
According to the Metropolitan Council's web site, the Hiawatha Light Rail Transit line in Minneapolis has exceeded expectations in terms of ridership and also proven to be a powerful catalyst for denser development.... more info
Transit-Oriented Housing Complex in Bloomington
Reflections at Bloomington Central Station -- two 17-story residential towers in Bloomington, MN -- are LEED-new construction certified.... more info
Transportation & Regional Growth Study
This 2003 publication documented findings from 16 reports to help policymakers make informed decisions about transportation and development trends in the Twin Cities.... more info
Transportation Demand Management and Commuter Options in the Twin Cities
This guidebook documents travel demand management (TDM) best practices in the Twin Cities and around the country, and proposes effective strategies.... more info
Transportation Resource Groups: Twin Cities and Statewide
A listing of transit, bike and pedestrian-related assistance and advocacy groups.... more info
Trotter's Cafe and Bakery
Trotter's is a St. Paul neighborhood cafe that supports sustainable practices.... more info
Twin Cities Community Supported Agriculture Farm Directory -- 2008
This directory lists 33 Community Supported Agriculture farms which serve the Twin Cities region as of 2007. Consumers can "join" the farms by buying a share. In return, they receive sustainably-produced vegetables weekly through the growing season.... more info
Twin Cities Free Market
The Free Market is a listing service for Twin Cities residents who want to get or give free reusable goods for the home, garage and garden. It is part of an effort to reduce the amount of reusable goods being thrown away.... more info
Twin Cities' Growth Scenarios
Two studies, done in 1999 and 2002, forecast differing social, economic and environmental outcomes dependent on how much sprawl is designed and built.... more info
Twin Cities Transit-Oriented Toolkit
The Twin Cities TOD Toolkit provides assistance and information to those interested in learning about transit-oriented development and how it can be encouraged in the Twin Cities region.... more info
Twin Cities Urban Ag Connection
TCUAC is a website built by and for those interested in urban agriculture. This networking tool was assembled to provide information about urban agriculture activities in the Twin Cities, and provide networking opportunities between organizations and individuals working in urban agriculture.... more info
UMore Park
The University of Minnesota Outreach, Research and Education (UMore) Park is a 5,000-acre site to be redeveloped, 25 miles southeast of the Twin Cities at the suburban-rural interface, near Rosemount, Minnesota.... more info
Using Natural Resources Information in Comprehensive Planning
This January 2006 handbook from the MN DNR provides guidance for how cities can create a comprehensive plan that incorporates both natural resource protection and physical development.... more info
Value of Planting Urban Trees Quantified
A 2005 US Forest Service study found that urban trees can lead to many benefits, including energy savings, increased property values, reduced stormwater runoff, improved air quality, and reduced carbon dioxide.... more info
Viking Coca-Cola Bottling Company Recognized for Waste Reduction and Recycling
Viking Coca-Cola Bottling Company was recognized in November 2005 for its outstanding waste reduction and recycling efforts.... more info
Voices of Concern about the Future of Chisago County
Results are available from a survey in Chisago County about its future growth.... more info
Waste and Toxicity Reduction Ideas
Excellent check list of easy-to-do neighborhood projects that reduce waste and toxicity.... more info
Waste Reduction Successes at West
West, a Thomson Business, (formerly West Publishing) received recognition from Minnesota Waste Wise in 2003 for its outstanding efforts to reduce waste and to increase the company's efficiency.... more info
Wastewater Prevention: Cutting Inflow and Infiltration
Twin Cities metropolitan cities will spend an estimated $12 million in 2009 to reduce I&I. Without such annual expenditures at the local level, the cost to add metro wastewater interceptor and treatment capacity to handle the excess flow from I & I would top $900 million.... more info
Water in Motion, Inc.
A Plymouth, MN firm - formerly Irrigation Consultants - specializing in high-efficiency water engineering consulting and design services for any size project.... more info
Watersheds and River Basins of Minnesota
The MPCA's web site provides comprehensive information on the 10 major river basins in the state, including contact people.... more info
Wedgeshare Grants
Grants are available each year from the Wedge Community Co-op in Minneapolis.... more info
Wipers Recycling's Hazardous Waste Clean Up Supplies & Products
WipersRecycling globally GOES GREEN by offering environmentally safe, non-hazardous waste clean up supplies or products.... more info
Women's Cancer Resource Center
The Minneapolis-based Women's Cancer Resource (now inactive, but in process of regeneration) has offered a number of programs that assist women with cancer, and also works to educate the community about the links between cancer and the environment on both a personal and community level.... more info
Women's Environmental Institute at Amador Hill
This non-profit environmental research, renewal and retreat center opened in spring 2004 near Almelund, MN (65 miles north of the Twin Cities).... more info
World Population Balance
This Minnesota organization offers guest speakers and curricula on population stabilization and its relationship to sustainability.... more info
Youth Gardening Projects in the Twin Cities
Description of some Twin Cities metro area youth gardening, employment and mentoring projects.... more info