Environment & Sustainability

Coverage of green innovations, and climate and environment issues and developments, especially those told by local voices and that offer solutions for community concerns.

Shed 5 Flea returns to Eastern Market for its 9th season

This summer, the Shed 5 Flea event series returns to Eastern Market to bring local vendors and food trucks for the community. The events will be held throughout the season on June 8, July 13, and August 10, 2025.

Latest in Environment & Sustainability
What the Friends of the Rouge are doing to fight water pollution and connect communities

In an industrialized area like Metro Detroit, connecting communities to nature can be challenging. Friends of the Rouge are working on strategies to engage people with their local watershed and keep the river healthy for future generations.

A Vincent van Gogh reproduction from the DIA in downtown Farmington in 2022.
These communities have been selected to host DIA masterworks in public spaces

“Seeing art in the community is just one way we hope people will connect with our collection,” says Julie McFarland, Executive Director of Public Affairs and Engagement at the DIA.

“These enhancements reflect our long-term commitment to building a more sustainable Sterling Heights,” says Mayor Michael C. Taylor.
Community Garden opens at Nelson Park with improvements ‘as engaging as they are practical’

“These enhancements reflect our long-term commitment to building a more sustainable Sterling Heights,” says Mayor Michael C. Taylor.

Kids participate in a water safety class at Adams Butzel Complex in Detroit.
Free swimming classes and equipment help improve water safety across Metro Detroit

A network of programs across Metro Detroit seeks to address high drowning rates and low swimming skills with free water safety education.

“This is more than a redevelopment — it’s a rebirth,” says Southfield Mayor Dr. Ken Siver.
Mixed-use developments in Ferndale and Southfield vary in size and scope but both win state support

“The Vester Flats mixed-use project will provide new workforce housing that is much needed throughout the State of Michigan," says Walters Group CEO Matt Walters.

A grand opening celebration for the Community Garden at Nelson Park is scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, May 1.
PHOTOS: Take a peek at the Sterling Heights Community Garden ahead of its grand opening

We captured some of the final work underway as spring rolls in full bloom.

Roz Nowosielski picks up trash at Stony Creek Metropark during an Earth Day cleanup event. She walks at the park every day and wanted to help clean it up.
Metroparks highlight new and expanded climate initiatives for Earth Day

The Huron-Clinton Metroparks are celebrating this Earth Day by rolling out several new pilot initiatives that are the first steps in an ambitious plan to combat the impacts of climate change.

The Phoenix Center in Pontiac, 2015.
‘A major moment’: Demolition work begins at Phoenix Center in downtown Pontiac

“This is a turning point for Pontiac’s future,” said Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter. “For decades, many have disinvested in Downtown Pontiac, limiting its potential. Now, we are unlocking the opportunity to attract businesses and bring new energy to our county seat.”

K-9 Mase.
Oak Park’s first K-9 officer retires after eight years of service

On March 31, the first K-9 officer and handler in Oak Park retired from the city's Department of Public Safety after eight years of tail-wagging dedication. Named after an Oak Park officer who died while on duty in 2008, K-9 Mase is renowned for his outstanding tracking abilities.

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