2026 Earth Day/Week/Month Events
Happy Earth Day! 🌎 It’s Earth Day, and our members are celebrating with events galore. While they aren’t all today, check out some of the cool things happening in communities across the Southeast. Upcoming events Fayetteville, AR: Full Earth Week programming with multiple events through April 27 Russellville, AR: Celebrate Earth Day, April 25 Boca…
Read MoreSoutheast Sustainability Directors Network Welcomes Two New Board Members
The Southeast Sustainability Directors Network (SSDN) is pleased to announce the appointment of two new members to its Board of Directors: Megan Pendell of Durham County, North Carolina, and Alannah Irwin of Boynton Beach, Florida. Both bring deep experience in local government leadership and a strong commitment to advancing sustainability and resilience across the Southeast.…
Read MoreWeathering the Storm 🌪️ Climate Resilience + Recovery
How do local governments communicate resilience and recovery in the wake of hurricanes and tropical storms? In our latest Green Minds Podcast episode, interview host Jessica Reid (City of Raleigh) sits down with local government leaders from across the Southeast to explore what it really looks like to show up for communities during and after…
Read MoreGreetings from Asheville
Our North Carolina members gathered this week to build relationships, strengthen our network, and engage in meaningful discussions about local project implementation and opportunities for collaboration. We’ll be heading into the winter break full of good ideas and refreshed from time spent together!
Read MoreLeave the Leaves
Fall leaves are nature’s mulch and habitat. By letting leaves stay where they fall, we: ✅ Provide shelter for pollinators and other beneficial insects ✅ Protect and enrich soil ✅ Cut down on yard waste headed to landfills ✅ Save time, money, and energy Learn what our member communities are doing to encourage residents to…
Read MoreMaking Energy Work
SSDN Policy Director Caitlin Rose recently attended the 2025 Making Energy Work Conference in Raleigh, NC. Hosted by NC Sustainable Energy Association, the conference is designed to shape policies that advance an accessible and affordable clean energy economy for all.
Read MoreMeet the Volterra: Cary, N.C.’s First Electric Fire Truck!
The Town of Cary Fire Department made history recently when they officially put the Pierce Volterra electric pumper into service, the first of its kind on the East Coast. The Volterra created a quieter, safer work environment, allowing firefighters to hear one another more clearly and focus during high-stakes moments. This investment demonstrates SSDN member…
Read MoreWhat’s the Buzz about Bee Cities?
Pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds are essential to healthy ecosystems, local agriculture, and biodiversity—but they’re in trouble. That’s where Bee City USA steps in, helping communities take meaningful steps to protect these vital species. Becoming a Bee City means your community commits to: ✅ Creating and enhancing pollinator habitats ✅ Educating the public about…
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