"We coincidentally started Green Philly when the first Greenworks plan was introduced by Mayor Michael Nutter," Hancher said, "and we've seen a huge uptick in the number of farmers markets, composting, bike lanes in Philly, and overall enthusiasm for local artisans and producers and makers. People are catching on to the benefits of sustainability. They just sometimes get confused or think sustainability is harder than it is."
Contributor Brianna Baker believes Philadelphians' attitude is making the city among the most eco-conscious on the East Coast.
"Increasingly, we understand that your environment affects your wellbeing here," she explained. "People in Philly are really passionate about helping others and helping our planet. I think that we're kind of scrappy, scrappier than other cities. We really want to prove ourselves, and that makes us more passionate and gives us more determination and grit."
While still answering odd recycling questions and passionately promoting pedal-power, these days Green Philly content drills deep into larger issues intersecting the sustainability movement, exploring topics ranging from how a potential employee can assess a corporation's social responsibility quotient, to how energy efficiency could alleviate poverty in Philadelphia.
Green Philly offers workshops to groups and businesses, panels, sustainability tours and even bestows SustainPHL awards at an annual ceremony to celebrate individuals and organizations making an impact in supporting an eco-friendly way of life.
Its newest event is the upcoming "How Sustainability Works" evening on Wednesday, Jan. 23. It will feature five-minute flash talks by sustainability professionals working in Philadelphia, simplifying complicated topics to engage attendees. Lengthier conversations at the networking afterwards are encouraged.
"Anyone curious in sustainability, learning about glassblowing, hemp clothing or sustainable beer, or just networking with urban professionals should join us on the 23rd at United By Blue!" Hancher enthused. "We are excited to kick off the new year with an evening dedicated to sustainability, making it easy, accessible and fun."
Tickets are available here.