Michigan Environmental Report
Spring 2009
Vol. 27 Issue 2From auto parts to wind turbines: One company’s clean energy success story
The future of Michigan’s clean energy manufacturing economy thrives in a pair of low-slung buildings in a sand-swept industrial park on Lake Michigan’s shore. Windspire wind turbines—a first generation of small windmills geared toward individual homes and businesses—are churned out by workers whose auto industry jobs have evaporated.
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RELATED TOPICS:
clean energy, wind power
How MEC works to make the Windspire succeed
The Michigan Environmental Council’s successes at the State Capitol—and its current agenda in Lansing—have helped clean energy industries like Mastech Manufacturing provide new jobs and economic vitality to a state reeling from auto industry woes.
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RELATED TOPICS:
clean energy, legislation
Stimulus plan boosts prospects of high speed rail service in Michigan
City-to-city passenger railroad service in Michigan may become the bright spot in the state’s transportation system.
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RELATED TOPICS:
MEC Member Groups, transportation policy
Farmers markets explode in Michigan, bringing economic, environmental benefits
Here’s some economic news to brighten your summer and provide a catalyst for green jobs that can’t be outsourced: Michigan leads the country in the production of many tasty fruits and vegetables, and the next few months are prime time to find them at your local farm markets and roadside stands.
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RELATED TOPICS:
agriculture, food policy
President's Column: Michigan’s Washington delegation hears from MEC as nation weighs energy future
True leadership is a combination of vision and action. Today, our political leadership often lacks both. Too many leaders are stuck in the past or present, unaware or unconcerned that their decisions today will impact our nation for 40 or 50 years.
View ArticleSpring 2009 - Michigan Environmental Report
RELATED TOPICS:
clean energy, legislation
Dowagiac Woods: The crown jewel of the Michigan Nature Association sparkles
Dowagiac Woods Nature Sanctuary in Southwest Michigan is a living example of how forests were when the early settlers beheld them—and with the recent addition of 149 acres, it’s growing!
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RELATED TOPICS:
conservation, MEC Member Groups
Conservancy without borders: Washtenaw Land Trust renamed Legacy Land Conservancy
While bureaucratic boundaries are important for politics, they are not heeded by ecosystems, landscapes, rivers or wildlife. Taking its cue from the landscape, the Washtenaw Land Trust has worked beyond the borders of Washtenaw County for years.
View ArticleSpring 2009 - Michigan Environmental Report
RELATED TOPICS:
conservation, MEC Member Groups
MEC applauds mileage standards
View ArticleSpring 2009 - Michigan Environmental Report
RELATED TOPICS:
transportation policy
MEC environmental heroes
Lana Pollack is at home in the boisterous halls and backrooms of the State Capitol. Rusty Gates is more comfortable wading in the cold clear waters of the Au Sable River. Both have made innumerable contributions to environmental protection in Michigan.
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RELATED TOPICS:
MEC Member Groups
MEC, Realtor: Walkable, vibrant cities are key to Michigan’s urban recovery
Michigan needs great, walkable, urban places if it is to mount a serious economic recovery. This is a refreshingly simple message, and one embraced by places like Chicago and Pittsburgh. But it has been a tough sell in Michigan.
View ArticleSpring 2009 - Michigan Environmental Report
RELATED TOPICS:
land use, Smart Growth
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