Think Green

Sustainability Fair 2008

 The first “Think Green Sustainability Fair” launched in October of 2008. The fair offered practical ways to save on energy use and other “green” practices through presentations, displays, and workshops at the Mayo Civic Center. A collaborative of governmental, public and private groups came together in conjunction with the Rochester Women’s Fall Expo, to make the Think Green Fair free and open to the public. Keynote addresses were made by author and educator John Nelson-Pallmeyer, Master Gardener and meteorologist Rebecca Kolls, and Minneapolis Mayor R.T Rybak. Elected officials joined the audience to discuss sustainability at the the city, county and state levels. Workshops were presented by lay experts and professionals on such topics as geothermal heating and cooling, solar heat, the economies of local food, community design, energy demands, sustainable landscapes and green building. The event offered activities and fun for all ages including children’s programs and an array of green vendors displaying their products and visions for a more sustainable Rochester.