Western Sustainable Living Expo comes to Billings
Published: March 25, 2009
The Western Sustainability Exchange (WSE) will host the largest “green living” event in the Northern Rockies May 1-3 in Billings.
The Western Sustainable Living Expo promotes solutions to “make our lives healthier, conserve resources and protect the planet,” says WSE Executive Director Lill Erickson, “while at the same time bolstering the rural economy.”
Regional leaders and sustainability experts will explore ways to incorporate sustainable practices into business operations and discuss why these techniques make economic sense. Over 100 businesses will showcase products and services that protect both human health and the environment.
Expo attendees will learn how they can reduce their own impacts and sustain the quality of the region through their daily choices.
Leading up to the event, Yellowstone Public Radio will feature a Sustainability Interview Series on a broad range of sustainability topics (go to www.yellowstonepublicradio.org for details). The expo itself kicks off with a “Sustainability Dollars and Sense Panel Discussion: on April 30, focusing on the economic benefits of sustainable practices from a multi-national, national, local, and ranching perspective.
On Friday, May 1, WSE offers a host of activities, including:
• “Green Jobs in a New Economy,” a forum focusing on the potential for “green” job creations in the region and the subsequent impact on the rural economy;
• Day of Discovery, featuring seminars, training and tours illustrating sustainable concepts and practices in building design, energy efficiency, sustainable land stewardship, and more; and
• Waste Not Montana Conference, which addresses solid waste disposal, composting and recycling issues.
Also on tap is music by Montana singer/songwriter Ben Bullington.
Over the weekend, May 2-3, WSE offers the Expo Trade Fair at MetraPark. The event features a green transportation show, children’s activities, organic and natural foods and a Sustainability Action Center.
It also showcases over 100 exhibits, including: health and body-care products, natural and organic foods, natural home and garden products, green-building designs and products, renewable energy technology, energy conservation products, organic and natural clothing, hybrid and electric vehicles, biofuels, alternative transportation options, socially responsible investing and finance, sustainable land management, and recycled art and jewelry.
About the Western Sustainability Exchange
For over 15 years, Western Sustainability Exchange (formerly Corporation for the Northern Rockies) has advanced sustainable choices throughout the region to enhance the rural economy and preserve the landscape and lifestyle of the West for generations to come. To learn more about WSE’s programs, and the Expo’s calendar of events visit www.westernsustainabilityexchange.org.
