Neighborhood Fiber Company is a sustainable, socially conscious, black female-owned small business in Baltimore that specializes in creating hand-dyed yarns that are named for the urban communities that inspire them. It was founded in Washington D.C. in 2006 and then relocated to Baltimore in 2011. They currently offer 14 different types of yarn in more than 70 colors and many of their colorways are named for neighborhoods in both D.C. and Baltimore. The business is owned by Karida Collins who has always found beauty in the urban landscapes of D.C. and Baltimore. 

Neighborhood Fiber Company works hard to prioritize environmental responsibility. They do this by utilizing base yarns without the traditional harmful chemicals used in the dyeing process. Karida has taken this work a step further and has committed her company to justice, empowerment, and equality for all people in addition to the environment. In 2015, like many other Baltimore residents, Karida experienced the Baltimore Uprising and decided to take action. She created her first Color for a Cause by creating a colorway named for the Sandtown-Winchester neighborhood. All proceeds from this yarn would be donated to help rebuild the neighborhood for which it was named. She managed to give more than $10,000. 

Building from this momentum, she also founded the NFC Momentum Fund in 2020. This organization has helped distribute over $50,000 to community organizations in Baltimore like Baltimore Safe Haven, Black Girls Vote, and An End to Ignorance. Karida has worked to raise more than $100,000 overall! Be sure to check out their retail location at 700 N. Eutaw Street in Baltimore or shop online for curbside pickup or delivery! Shopping at Neighborhood Fiber Company is a great option for those looking to support this holiday season!

The Baltimore City Office of Sustainability is recruiting for an Environmental Planner (City Planner II) to support Baltimore's Forest Conservation Program. The Environmental Planner will perform integral professional and administrative work stewarding the City's tree canopy and urban forest through the review and analysis of various development applications and plans, such as natural resource inventories, forest conservation plans, and landscape plans. This role will also coordinate and collaborate with agencies and organizations advancing projects and policies that support the city's urban tree canopy, forests, natural areas, and biodiversity. All applications must be submitted through this portal by January 13. Please contact Amy Gilder-Busatti, Sustainability Manager, with questions about this position.

The Baltimore Commission on Sustainability oversees the implementation of the Baltimore Sustainability Plan. The Commission is made up of members representing environmental groups, community organizations, labor unions, public health and environmental justice interests, and private industry. The Baltimore Commission on Sustainability currently has vacancies to be filled. Those interested in serving on the Commission may apply at this link by December 30th to be considered for appointment by the Mayor.

After 20-year battle, feds agree to remove dams on Klamath River -- Sacramento News and Review

The Klamath River is a major river in Northern California and Oregon. In an environmental justice win, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in Washington, D.C. decided to remove the four dams on the lower Klamath River. Removing these dams will give endangered salmon and other anadromous fish access to about 400 miles of spawning habitat they haven’t had since 1918. Russell “Buster” Attebery, chairman of the Káruk Tribe said, “Today’s victory was well-earned by the thousands of people who fought for clean water, healthy fisheries, and environmental justice for Klamath River communities.”

Infrastructure Typology -- Shma Company Limited

The Thailand-based landscape architecture firm Shma Company Limited has identified five categories in regard to the creation of Green Infrastructure in cities. These categories include Environmental, Social, Biodiversity, Food, and Health infrastructures. Shma Company Limited stated, "The purpose of these green spaces is not only serving as a socializing spot or a space filled with trees, but each typology presents its aspects and benefits." Viewing these green approaches as part of the city through various factors such as environment, social, biodiversity, food security, and health. Furthermore, each type has a different role in mitigating the impact of climate change and natural disasters. These green typologies can be applied to the city's urban fabric at various scales.

Prosperity Without Growth: Economics for a Finite Planet -- Tim Jackson

In this adaptation of a report by the Sustainable Development Commission, Tim Jackson argues convincingly that, once our material needs are met, economic growth does little to achieve human prosperity. The book explains that creating jobs that build community, combat alienation, and strengthen social relations is far more effective at fostering human flourishing. Organizing our economy around such work will be the key to transitioning away from endless growth and consumption. The book provides a pathway for nations to transition to a sustainable economy, which includes reorganizing our economy to focus on social wellbeing rather than growth, promoting green growth towards meeting material needs in developing countries, and green recovery for underserved areas in developed countries.

It's beginning to feel a lot like winter here in Baltimore. Those of us in homes that haven't been weatherized can definitely feel the difference. If you are curious to see how energy efficient your home is, BGE offers a free service to customers once every 5 years at the same address or sooner if you've moved to a new address. The checkup and any energy-saving products installed during the checkup are provided at no cost. During the walkthrough, your home's insulation levels, windows, and doors, as well as heating and cooling systems will be inspected. Schedule your BGE Quick Home Energy Check-up now!

Another income-dependent option is available through Baltimore City's Department of Housing and Community Development. This program is more expansive and will include repair and even appliance replacement when necessary. Even rental applicants are accepted by this program. Check out income guidelines and information on this free program by visiting the DHCD website on Weatherization and Energy Efficiency.