sustainability

An experimental project in Washtenaw County has the potential to change the way road repair and resurfacing are carried out. The pilot project in Pittsfield Township uses a hot-mix asphalt that incorporates ground tire rubber. A study is underway to determine if it is not only better for the environment but more sustainable and resilient as a paving practice. The project is a collaboration between the Washtenaw County Road Commission, Michigan Tech University and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy. Learn more in a conversation between WEMU's David Fair and Michigan Tech transportation engineering professor Dr. Zhanping You.

Ann Arbor’s Sustainable Energy Utility has been awarded a $250,000 grant from the Municipal Investment Fund. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert has this report.

The University of Michigan’s first solar arrays that are part of a major green energy expansion are now online. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

2025 marks the 25th year of the Green Fair in Ann Arbor. The event was initially called "The Mayor's Green Fair." Now, it is called the A2Zero Green Fair to reflect the city's initiative aimed at reaching carbon neutrality by the year 2030. WEMU's David Fair and Ann Arbor Mayor Christopher Taylor discuss the impact of a quarter-century of Green Fairs and the path forward to a healthier and more sustainable community.

The Michigan football season is underway, and excitement and expectations are on high for what the Wolverines can accomplish on the field of play. There are also big expectations for what happens in and around the rest of the "Big House". Work towards making Michigan gamedays a zero-waste event continue, and WEMU's David Fair discussed progress with U-M Senior Project Manager, Alison Richardson.

In September, The University of Michigan will hold its first Climate Week. The idea is to create a series of events and activities to further engage the community in climate action and sustainability. It comes against the backdrop of dramatic rollbacks in environmental and climate protections at the federal level. Dr. Shalanda Baker is the school's first-ever Vice Provost for Sustainability and Climate Action. She discussed that and more with WEMU's David Fair and Michigan League of Conservation Voters executive director, Lisa Wozniak.

The Ann Arbor Sustainability Commission held its first meeting Tuesday night. It focused mainly on its bylaws and workplan. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

Ann Arbor’s Bryant neighborhood is moving forward in its goal to become the first in the nation to become fully carbon neutral. The city is also working with other neighborhoods to join them. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

The Ann Arbor City Council has approved an agreement for the redevelopment of Braun Court. For years, it was the center of the city’s LGBTQ+ community. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

The City of Ann Arbor is working to launch its sustainable energy utility initiative and has found an executive director to spearhead the effort. WEMU’s Ana Longoria has the details.