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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Welcome to the first all-digital issue of Green Matters in Jackson Hole. Earlier this spring, when we first considered the shift from a printed newsletter to an online publication, it felt like a big decision. Uncertain and risky. Little did we know, change would quickly become the way of the world. When COVID-19 arrived, there were so many questions. How would we all stay safe? When would this end? And would we look ridiculous using something called Zoom?
As we regrouped and reached out to the Green Matters community of sponsors, partners, and contributors, we found them at home, of course, yet hard at work. These determined stewards and innovators were ready for our call. Their answer, across the board, was yes! Yes, they had stories to report and news to tell. Yes, their projects were moving forward and in new and compelling ways. This issue is filled with the information, strategies, and updates they provided. We hope readers are as excited as we are to reconnect with the ongoing work of sustainability in Jackson Hole.
Right from the start, the spread on pages 4-5 is not only eye-catching, but interactive! Be sure to download the Artivive app to witness the debut of a powerful new partner in conservation and a beautiful blend of public art with augmented reality (AR). As these water-wise animals will remind you, sustainability begins with individuals. Don’t miss other ideas for actions one person can take in the articles about measuring one carbon footprint at a time and eliminating one plastic fork per lunch hour. Moving beyond the individual, readers can learn about the call to advocacy as well as the public policies driving some of the valley’s larger-scale initiatives. The story on page 8 details the recent establishment of the citizen-led Jackson Hole Climate Action Collective. Updates on the landfill cap at Little Horsethief Canyon and the framework for sustainable recreation in Bridger-Teton National Forest, meanwhile, provide a chronicle of the comprehensive planning and management efforts underway.
What truly emerges from this issue, however, is the further recognition of sustainability as a defining tenet of this community. Green Matters is pleased to announce Jackson Hole’s recent achievement as an Earthcheck certified sustainable destination. The timeline on pages 6-7 traces the milestones of this multi-year, multi-tiered initiative that involved numerous community partners, a multitude of volunteer hours, and generous donor contributions.
Finally, to close out the issue and capitalize fully on this new digital platform, join us in a Back-Page Mini-Film Festival to screen the latest announcements in energy conservation, sustainable food, alternative transportation, and zero waste. We thank you for embracing this new format as a way to conserve resources and provide a more dynamic experience, with opportunities for continued innovation in the issues to come. Enjoy and be well!
Tim O’Donoghue, Executive Director, Publisher
Mari Allan Hanna, Editor
