Environmental Science

Green Guide

Green Guide Updates and Queries: E-mail envtstud@temple.edu

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Academy of Natural Sciences

Lori Klein: Director of Communications & Media Relations
1900 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Tel: (215) 299-1066 | Fax: (215) 299-1107
E-mail:webmaster@acnatsci.org
Web: www.acnatsci.org

Founded in 1812, The Academy of Natural Sciences is the oldest continuously operating natural history institution in the Western Hemisphere. Visitors can view classic wildlife dioramas, learn about dinosaurs, dig for fossils, immerse them-selves in a tropical rainforest filled with live butterflies and visit more than 100 wild animals unable to survive on their own in the wild. Outreach programs, sleepovers, birthday parties, and educational programs compliment the on-site museum experience.

In addition to the public museum, the Academy has a vibrant research program that uncovers the secrets of nature and solves problems of environmental concern. The Academy's Biodiversity Group, Patrick Center for Environmental Research, and Estuarine Research Center in Maryland study species and environments in many parts of the world from ancient lakes in Mongolia to the Amazonian rain forest. Research ranges from studies in fresh water and estuarine ecology to the diversity of life forms.

 

Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Susan Curry, President
316 Edgewood Drive
Ambler, PA 19002
Tel: (215) 591-1551 | Fax: Call first
E-mail: suscurry@erols.com
Web: www.asustainablefuture.org | www.earthchartercitizens.org
Memberships available.

Over 1,000 individuals and organizations in the Alliance for a Sustainable Future are working for healthy ecosystems and sustainable communities in the Delaware Valley. We embrace the Earth Charter whose mission is to bring forth a sustainable society founded on respect for nature, universal human rights, economic justice, and a culture of peace. Our decendants and the future of the living Earth community depend on a transformation of our thinking and behavior to reduce the overall human impact on the planet, and to bring society into a harmonious relationship with natural ecosystems. A long-term, big-picture, precautionary life-oriented perspective is imperative. Issues include: preservation and restoration of nature justice and cultural and gender equity population stabilization consumption reduction pollution and toxicity prevention elimination of weapons of mass destruction and right livelihood within local living economies.

ASF produces educational conferences and presentations, collaborates with community and governmental efforts, and organizes task forces to address local problems and opportunities. Recent efforts include: annual conferences on Evolving a Sustainable Society, annual Philadelphia Earth Charter Community Summits and leadership for Earth Charter Citizens, several Natural Step seminars, a 3-year project to reduce use of lawn chemicals and provide watershed education, a storm sewer labeling project, a new organic farm and CSA in eastern Montgomery County, promoting wind energy through municipal purchases, discussion groups on voluntary simplicity and sustainable lifestyles, a Quality of Life Indicators project, and training on population connections for teachers.

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Appalachian Mountain Club

Mr. Chris Rapacki, Chapter Chair, Delaware Valley Chapter
104 Gaither Drive
Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054
E-mail: chair@amcdv.org
Web: www.amcdv.org
Memberships available.

Appalachian Mountain Club promotes protection and enjoyment of the mountains, rivers and trails of the Northeast. AMC encourages people to enjoy and appreciate the natural world and believes that successful long-term conservation depends on this experience. The AMC sponsors hiking, backpacking, canoeing, trail work, climbing & cross-country skiing trips both locally & throughout the NE US.

Publications:

 

Awbury Arboretum Association

Nicki Toizer, Children's Education Manager
The Francis Cope House
1 Awbury Road
Philadelphia, PA 19138-1505
Tel: (215) 849-2855; (215) 849-5561 -education info
Fax:: (215) 849-0213
E-mail: awbury@voicenet.com
Web: www.awbury.org
Memberships available.

Awbury Arboretum is a 55-acre Victorian arboretum of green vistas, woodland trails, ponds, and wildlife meadows conveniently located in historic Germantown. The Arboretum contains a documented collection of native and exotic trees. The major focus of the Arboretum is environmental education programs for visiting school classes. Subjects include: Native American Life, Nature's Recycling, Wetlands, Weather Wise, Maple Syrup, and Treasuring Trees.

 

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Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia

100 S. Broad Street
Suite 1355
Philadelphia, PA 19110
Tel: (215) BICYCLE | Fax: (267) 514-2324
E-mail: bike@bicyclecoalition.org
Web: www.bicyclecoalition.org
Memberships available.


The Bicycle Coalition works to make bicycling better through advocacy and education by promoting biking as a healthy, low-cost, and environmentally-friendly form of transportation and recreation.

Founded in 1972, the Coalition is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that serves the Pennsylvania counties of Montgomery, Delaware, Chester, Bucks and Philadelphia as well as South Jersey and the state of Delaware.


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Brandywine Conservancy: Environmental Management Center

H. William Sellers, Director
P.O. Box 141
Chadds Ford, PA 19317
Tel: (610) 388-2700
E-mail: emc@brandywine.org
Web: www.brandywineconservancy.org/preserve.html
Memberships available.

The Brandywine Conservancy is a nonprofit organization providing model land and wake use and management plans and environmental regulatory assistance to Pennsylvania municipalities and land and historic site conservation and management assistance to landowners and conservation organizations primarily in Pennsylvania and Delaware. The Brandywine Conservancy was founded in 1967. Programs offered by the Conservancy include: Land Stewardship, Municipal Assistance, Community Design, Historic Preservation, Community Trails, and Horticultural Programs and Workshops.

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Churchville Nature Center

Chris Stieber, Director
501 Churchville Lane
Churchville, PA 18966
Tel: (215) 357-4005 | Fax: (215) 396-1153
E-mail: churchvillenaturecenter@co.bucks.pa.us
Web: www.churchvillenaturecenter.org
Memberships and volunteer opportunities available.

The Churchville Nature Center is a facility of the Bucks County Department of Parks and Recreation. This 55-acre preserve is located adjacent to the Churchville Reservoir and includes a visitor center with interpretive displays, lending nature library bird observation blind, Lenape Indian Village, 2.5 miles of walking trails, and also includes handicapped accessible Wildlife Gardens.
The mission of the Churchville Nature Center is to instill an awareness and appreciation of the natural world in all people through education, and to promote responsible environmental stewardship with a commitment to the preservation of resources and wildlife habitat. Environmental Education Brochure for schools and organized groups

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Citizens For Pennsylvania's Future

Jan Jarrett, President and CEO
610 N. Third Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Tel: (717) 214-7920 | Fax: (717) 214-7927
E-mail: info@pennfuture.org
Web: www.pennfuture.org
Memberships available

PennFuture, which has offices in Harrisburg, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, is a statewide public interest membership organization that advances policies to protect and improve the state’s environment and economy. PennFuture’s activities include litigating cases before regulatory bodies and in local, state and federal courts, advocating and advancing legislative action on a state and federal level, public education and assisting citizens in public advocacy.

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Clean Air Council

Joseph Otis Minott, Esq., Executive Director
135 South 19th Street, Suite 300
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Tel: (215) 567-4004 | Fax: (215) 567-5791

107 North Front Street, Suite 113
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Tel: (717) 230-8806 Fax: (717)230-8808

100 West 10th Street, Suite 704
Wilmington, DE 19801
Tel: (302) 691-0112, ext. 226

Pittsburgh
Tel: (412) 392-0550

Membership hotline: 1-888-567-7796

E-mail: echeung@cleanair.org
Web: www.cleanair.org
Membership, intern, and volunteer opportunities available.

Clean Air Council is committed to the belief that everyone has the right to breathe clean, healthful air. Founded in 1967, the Council is the oldest member supported environmental organization in the state. The team of attorneys, community organizers, and policy analysts focuses its efforts on the following key areas: Clean Air, Clean Energy, Global Climate Change, Sustainable Transportation, Waste Reduction and Recycling, Indoor Air Quality, and Children's Environmental Health.

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Clean Water Action

Robert Wendelgass, State Director
100 North 17th St., 9th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Tel: (215) 640-8800
E-mail: phillycwa@covad.net
Website: www.cleanwateraction.org
Various membership, intern and volunteer opportunities

Clean Water Action is a local, state, and national environmental advocacy organization. CWA works on issues as diverse as water quality, recycling, pesticides, and drinking water protection; provides technical and organizing assistance to community organizations; lobbies government officials; and educates the public.

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Delaware River Greenway Partnership

Celeste Tracy , Executive Director
P.O. Box 273
Burlington, NJ 08016
Tel: (609) 239-0444 | Fax: (908) 996-0231
E-mail: info@delrivgreenway.org
Web: www.delrivgreenway.org
Memberships available.

The Delaware River Greenway Partnership (DRGP) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the stewardship of the Delaware River. DRGPs primary purpose is to bring together individuals, communities, businesses, recreational users, and all levels of government from both sides of the river to promote and protect a continuous corridor of natural and cultural resources along the Delaware River and its tributaries.
The Delaware River Greenway Partnership played a leading role in securing a National Wild and Scenic River designation for the Lower Delaware River. DRGP coordinates the efforts of the Wild and Scenic Management Committee and is responsible for administering the Municipal Incentive Grant program, which provides funding for local governments to undertake projects that further the implementation of the Lower Delaware River Management Plan.

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Delaware Riverkeeper Network

Maya van Rossum, the Delaware Riverkeeper
P.O. Box 326
Washington Crossing, PA 18977-0326
Tel: (215) 369-1188 | Fax: (215) 369-1181
E-mail: drn@delawareriverkeeper.org
Web: www.delawareriverkeeper.org
Memberships available.

The Delaware Riverkeeper Network works to protect and restore the Delaware River, its tributaries and habitats through advocacy, enforcement, and citizen action. If you see pollution, erosion or other threats to water quality, call our hotline listed above.

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Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC)

Candace Snyder, Director Public Affairs
The Bourse Building 8th Floor
111 South Independence Mall East
Philadelphia, PA 19106-2582
Tel: (215) 592-1800 | Fax: (215) 592-9125
E-mail: csnyder@dvrpc.org
Web: www.dvrpc.org

DVRPC, the Metropolitan Planning Organization for the greater nine-county Philadelphia area, works to proactively shape a comprehensive vision for the region's future growth by providing technical services, conducting high priority studies, and fostering cooperation among the region's many constituencies. Specific "green" projects include mobility alternative programs (TransitChek, Share a Ride), regional air quality initiatives (Ozone Action Program), Watershed Management, and Transit-Oriented Development.

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dvTUG (Delaware Valley Transit Users Group)

A Project of Clean Air Council
Kevin Smith, Chairman
Dennis Winters, Project Manager
135 South 19th Street, Suite 300
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Tel: (215) 567-4004 ext. 233
E-mail: elinn@cleanair.org
Memberships available.

The Delaware Valley Transit Users Group was founded in June of 1998 with two fundamental convictions: 1) public transportation is an essential municipal service and 2) public transportation planners and providers must respond to the needs of transit users.

 

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Energy Coordinating Agency (ECA)

 

David McVeigh Schultz, Development Director
1924 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Tel: (215) 988-0929 | Fax: (215) 988-0919
E-mail: davids@ecasavesenergy.org
Web: www.ecasavesenergy.org

ECA is a private nonprofit corporation dedicated to ensuring that households have access to safe, affordable and reliable sources of energy and water. Since 1985, ECA has provided thousands with conservation, home repair, energy education and bill payment assistance every year. ECA also works to develop a sustainable energy future for the region by managing the Philadelphia Million Solar Roofs Community Partnership.

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Environmental Fund For Pennsylvania (EFP)

Ali Travis, Administrative Assistant/Campaign Coordinator
State Headquarters
1420 Walnut Street Suite 1304
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Tel: 1-800-334-3190; (215) 545-5880
Fax: (215) 545-5811
E-mail: efp@GreenWorks.tv
Web: www.efpa.org

EFP is a federation of 17 environmental and conservation organizations who work to directly benefit the health, well being and quality of life for all Pennsylvanians. EFP raises funds to support direct service programs offered by its members through "People at Work Campaigns". EFP offers employers exciting educational fundraising campaign ideas that make it easy for everyone to be involved.

EFP also works with GreenTreks Network which produces television videos, documentaries, and multimedia productions which illustrate the complex struggle between humankind and the environment. Visit GreenTreks website at www.greentreks.org. For more information about any of these programs, call 1-800-334-3190.

 

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Fairmount Park Commission

Tom Doyle, Park Information Officer
Memorial Hall West Park
Philadelphia, PA 19131
Tel: (215) 685-0000 | Fax: (215) 878-9859
Web: www.phila.gov/fairpark

Fairmount Park is the world's largest municipal park, with 8,700 acres of parkland and jurisdiction over all of Philadelphia's street trees. Fairmount Park's property extends from the Poquessing Creek to the Philadelphia Naval Yard. Fairmount Park also operates four recycling centers throughout Philadelphia. At these recycling centers, citizens are encouraged to take advantage of free firewood, mulch, and wood chips.


The Franklin Institute Science Museum

20th Street & Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Tel: (215) 448-1200 | Fax:(215) 448-1235
E-mail: webteam@www.fi.edu
Web: www.fi.edu
Memberships available.

The Franklin Institute is a city block filled with excitement for people of all ages. Hundreds of hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, giant screen Tuttleman Omnimax Theater, changing special exhibit, and Benjamin Franklin National Memorial.

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Friends of Pennypack Park

Linde Lauff, President
P.O. Box 14302
Philadelphia, PA 19115
Tel: (215) 934-PARK | Fax: (215) 338-6117
E-mail: FriendsPennypack@comcast.net
Web: balford.com/fopp
Memberships available

In 1987, several individuals concerned about the decline in the condition of Pennypack Park had a vision to form an organization that would become an advocate for the park and actively improve its condition. Current activities of the FOPP include: conducting monthly history and nature walks, monthly park clean-ups, monthly meetings on matters concerning the park and environment, monitoring the quality of the water in Pennypack Creek on a regular basis, and monthly recycling of mixed paper and plastic (1 & 2) on the third Saturday of each month from 9am to noon at Lincoln High School, located at Ryan and Rowland Aves.

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Friends of Philadelphia Parks

Lauren Bomfriend, Executive Director
P.O. Box 12677
Philadelphia, PA 19129-0077
Tel: (215) 879-8159 | Fax: (215) 879-8833
E-mail: friends@philaparks.org
Web: www.philaparks.org
Memberships available

Established in 1983, Friends of Philadelphia Parks is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and advancing public awareness, support, enjoyment, and preservation of Philadelphia's Parks. The Friends, with a membership of more than 3,000, focuses its energy on community outreach and education about park issues. Programs include: A quarterly newsletter read by over 9000 families & organizations, presentations to City Council, partnerships and affiliations with other non-profits & city agencies, monthly hikes, Pennies for the Park, and serves as a general information resource and provides support to the community at large.

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Friends of the Wissahickon

8708 Germantown Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Tel: (215) 247-0417 | Fax: (215) 247-9329
Web: www.fow.org
Memberships available

Friends of the Wissahickon is a nonprofit, community, environmental and educational organization whose purpose is to preserve the natural beauty and wildness of the Wissahickon Valley and to stimulate public interest therein. Activities include cleanup, trail maintenance and repair, reforestation and restoration, hydrology and wildlife management.

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Greater Philadelphia Clean Cities Program

Eric Cheung, Coordinator
135 South 19th Street, Suite 300
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Tel: (215) 567-4004 ext. 237
Fax: (215) 567-5791
E-mail: echeung@cleanair.org
Web: www.phillycleancities.org
Memberships available.

Since 1993, Greater Philadelphia Clean Cities Program (GPCCP) has been promoting the development and use of clean, domestically-produced alternatives to gasoline and diesel fuel. Over 1,000 alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) are on the road in the Greater Philadelphia area today. GPCCP provides rebates for purchasers of AFVs and conducts outreach to inform schools and the public about the energy security and air quality benefits of alternative fuels. Philadelphia hosted the 7th National Clean Cities Conference in 2001 and the 2nd Mid-Atlantic Regional Clean Cities Conference in 2003.

Publications:


Green Valleys Association

1368 Prizer Road
Pottstown, PA 19465
Tel: (610) 469-4900 | Fax: (610) 469-4990
E-mail: gva@greenvalleys.org
Web: www.greenvalleys.org

Having a strong record of community services as a protector, catalyst, educator, watchdog, coordinator, supporter, and ombudsman, GVA faces the environmental challenges of the future with strength. Demands of increasing population and subsequent changes in land use require a proactive role for GVA that encompasses: advocacy of sensible environmental guidelines for the evolving community; protection of the natural and rural character of the area; education of the community to heighten environmental awareness.

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Heritage Conservancy

Sandra Yerger, Membership Coordinator
85 Old Dublin Pike
Doylestown, PA 18901
Tel: (215) 345-7020 | Fax: (215) 345-4328
E-mail: syerger@heritageconservancy.org
Web: www.heritageconservancy.org
Memberships Available

Heritage Conservancy is a non-profit membership organization dedicated to the preservation of our region's natural and historic resources since 1958. The conservancy seeks to balance growth by forging partnerships with private citizens, businesses and government agencies in order to preserve the area's natural and historic heritage. These partnerships have resulted in significant accomplishments over the years, and today, Heritage Conservancy is recognized as a premier, regional leader in land conservation and historic preservation.

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Interfaith Coalition on Energy

Andrew Rudin, Project Coordinator
7217 Oak Avenue
Melrose Park, PA 19027
Tel: (215) 635-1122 | Fax: (215) 635-1903
E-mail: andrewrudin@earthlink.net
Web: www.interfaithenergy.com

The mission of the Interfaith Coalition on Energy is to inspire congregations to reduce the costs of operating their facilities, thus creating money for community service while practicing environmental stewardship. The Coalition guides congregations to use measurably less energy, to purchase energy at lower cost and to anticipate and prevent problems with mechanical and electrical systems.

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John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum

Gina Blyther, Director, Education and Public Programs
International Plaza II, Suite 104
Philadelphia, PA 19113
Tel: (215) 365-3118 | Fax: (610) 521-0611
E-mail: jhtnwr@fws.gov
Web: heinz.fws.gov
No fees. Optional membership in the "Friends of Heinz Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum".

The refuge includes the largest freshwater tidal marsh in the state, a diked, shallow impoundment and various other wetland and upland habitats. School groups are encouraged to visit. Wildlife-related recreation, such as bird watching, nature photography, fishing, etc., is also encouraged. Guided walks are held every weekend free of charge.

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Keystone Trails Association

PO Box 129
Confluence, PA 15424
E-mail: info@kta-hike.org
Web: www.kta-hike.org
Memberships Available

THE KEYSTONE TRAILS ASSOCIATION--usually referred to as the KTA--is an alliance of organizations and individuals who share a common interest in hiking opportunities in Pennsylvania and neighboring states. KTA plays a lead role in coordinating the activities of hiking clubs and other sympathetic outdoor groups in and around Pennsylvania. It keeps a watchful eye on actions of government--at all levels--that can have an impact on hiking or hiking trails. Through the quarterly newsletter and this Web Site, members and hikers are kept informed about hiking-related activities in and around Pennsylvania.

 

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Million Solar Roofs Partnership

Liz Robinson, Coordinator
1924 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Tel: (215) 988-0929 ext 242 | Fax: (215) 988-0919
E-mail: lizr@ecasavesenergy.org
Web: www.phillysolar.org

The Million Solar Roofs Partnership works throughout the Philadelphia area to promote the use of solar energy, particularly solar photovoltaics (PV) and solar water heating. The Partnership provides training, public education, technical assistance and a range of other services to assist both residential and commercial customers who may be interested in solar energy. The Partnership works closely with the Sustainable Development Fund which provides a full range of grants, loans and other financial supports for solar electricity. Partnership members include federal, state and local government, utilities, electricity suppliers, financial institutions, manufacturers, environmental organizations, suppliers, installers, architects, and other professionals who share a commitment to a sustainable energy future.

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Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania

Jan McFarlan, Education Coordinator
100 Northwestern Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Tel: (215) 247-5777 ext.156 | Fax: (215) 247-7862
E-mail: kms@pobox.upenn.edu
Web: www.morrisarboretum.org
Memberships and courses available.

The Morris Arboretum is an educational institution that promotes an understanding of the important relationships between plants and people. Founded in 1887, the Arboretum today is an interdisciplinary center that integrates art, science, and the humanities. It is the official arboretum of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The Arboretum conducts three major activities: horticultural display, public and professional education, and botanical and horticultural research. It also provides information and outreach services to state agencies, institutions, and Pennsylvania citizens. We offer guided tours to school children and adult groups and about 80 adult and children courses each year. We also offer a yearlong internship program.

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Natural Lands Trust

Oliver Bass, Director of Development and Communications
Hildacy Farm, 1031 Palmers Mill Road
Media, PA 19063
Tel: (610) 353-5587 | Fax: (610) 353-0517
E-mail: members@natlands.org
Web: www.natlands.org
Memberships available.

Natural Lands Trust is a non-profit regional land trust dedicated to working with people to conserve land in the Delaware Valley Region and other nearby areas of environmental concern by 1) acquiring and managing preserve properties (49 sites totaling more than 13,000 acres) 2) providing landowners with practical conservation alternatives to conventional land developments 3) assisting municipalities in their efforts to design and implement community-wide networks of open space, and 4) promoting conservation education and research.

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The Nature Conservancy of Pennsylvania

Scott E. Anderson, Director of Philanthropy
1100 E. Hector St., Suite 470
Conshohocken, PA 19428
Tel: (610) 834-1323, ext. 119 | Fax: (610) 834-6533
E-mail: scott_anderson@tnc.org
Web: www.nature.org/pennsylvania
Various membership, intern and volunteer opportunities available.
Join the Nature Conservancy by calling 1-800-75-NATURE

The Nature Conservancy is the largest land conservation organization in the world. Its mission is to preserve the plants, animals and natural communities that represent the diversity of life on Earth by protecting the lands and waters they need to survive.
Across the hemisphere, the Conservancy has protected 11 million acres of ecologically significant land, including more than 45,000 acres in Pennsylvania. Join the Nature Conservancy by calling 1-800-75-NATURE.

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Neighborhood Gardens Association: A Philadelphia Land Trust

Terry Mushovic, Executive Director
100 N. 20th St., Suite 309
Philadelphia, PA 19103-1443
Tel: (215) 988-8797 | Fax:(215) 564-5572
E-mail: nga-staff@ngalandtrust.org
Web: www.ngalandtrust.org

Neighborhood Gardens Association (NGA), a non-profit land trust, saves community managed gardens and open space in low to moderate income communities. NGA achieves this by acquiring property itself or helping garden groups acquire property through assistance with necessary research, negotiations, and legal work. Garden management remains in the hands of the gardeners.

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Penn State Urban Gardening Program

Doris Stahl, Director
4601 Market Street 2nd Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19139
Tel: (215) 471-2200 | Fax: (215) 471-2231
E-mail: PhiladelphiaExt@psu.edu
Web: philadelphia.extension.psu.edu/Horticulture/UrbanGarden.html

The Urban Gardening Program provides education and technical assistance to 500 community gardens on vacant lots; introducing youth to urban gardening, providing advice to backyard gardeners and effectively teaching innovative garden techniques in the city environment.

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Pennsylvania Alliance for Environmental Education

c/o Schuylkill Conservation District
1206 AG Center Drive
Pottsville, PA 17901
E-mail: angela.belli@email.stvincent.edu
Web: www.paee.net

The Pennsylvania Alliance for Environmental Education (PAEE) is a non-profit organization that promotes and supports environmental education activities and efforts throughout Pennsylvania. The mission is to develop a citizenry that understands and appreciates the natural world, recognizes and accepts responsibility for its impact on natural systems, and is motivated to take personal action to solve environmental problems.
PAEE is one of America's oldest state environmental education groups. Formed in 1977, it is the professional membership organization of the environmental education community of Pennsylvania. The membership is diverse. Together, we unite to nurture the growth of environmental literacy in the Keystone State. To accomplish the goal to educate all Pennsylvania citizens, PAEE provides the following services and benefits: an annual fall conference, PAEE Journal, teacher resource packets, regional activities.



Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)

Joseph Feola, Regional Director
Lee Park, Suite 6010, 555 North Lane
Conshohocken, PA 19428
Tel: (484) 250-5900 | Fax: (610)250-5914
Web: www.dep.state.pa.us/southeastro

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection's mission is to protect Pennsylvania's air, land, and water from pollution and to provide for the health and safety of its citizens through a cleaner environment. We will work as partners with individuals, organizations, governments and businesses to prevent pollution and restore our natural resources.

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Pennsylvania Environmental Council

Patrick Starr , Senior Vice President, Southeast Region
121 Chestnut Street, Suite 401
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Tel: (215) 592-7020 | Fax: (215) 592-7026
Web: www.pecpa.org/region/southeast
Memberships available.

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council is a statewide, non-profit membership organization dedicated to protecting and improving Pennsylvania's environment through advocacy, education, and action projects. PEC focuses on sustainable use of land, protection of watersheds, open space and farmland protection, and community revitalization. With offices in Philadelphia, Wilkes-Barre, Harrisburg, Pittsburgh and Meadville, PEC works with state, county and local government and grass-roots organizations at the community level to advocate and implement innovative solutions to environmental problems. Current projects include the GreenSpace Alliance, a regional effort in SEPA to protect linked open space and promote livable communities the EAC Network, a project to assist municipal environmental advisory councils greenway planning along the North Delaware Riverfront in Philadelphia and various brownfield initiatives, designed to revitalize older communities.
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The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society's Philadelphia Green Program

Mindy Maslin, Project Manager
100 N. 20th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Tel: (215) 988-8844 | Fax: (215) 988-8810
E-mail: mmaslin@pennhort.org
Web: www.pennsylvaniahorticulturalsociety.org/phlgreen/index.html
Memberships and volunteer opportunities available.

Philadelphia Green Program
The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) is well known as the producer of the Philaselphia Flower Show which raises money to support Philadelphia Green, its urban greening program. Philadelphia Green works with community groups throughout the City to plan and implement greening projects on vacant lots, in neighborhood parks (including as of 2003 FPC parks), along city streets, and in downtown public spaces.
PHS has received a contract for services to assist with the Mayor’s Neighborhood Transformation Initiative in a citywide effort to implement a Green City Strategy, focusing on stabilizing 1,000 parcels of vacant land and providing greening services. This ambitious effort will leverage 30 years of experience PHS has with the NTI goal to stem the growth of blight in Philadelphia and begin the process of rebuilding communities.

The Tree Tenders Project
The Tree Tenders project is part of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. In June of 1993, Tree Tenders was created to train Philadelphia residents to plant and care for trees. Basic training, offered twice a year, consists of sessions about theory, practical information and hands on experience. The training is free. Continuing education workshops are held regularly for graduates. For information on The Tree Tenders Program contact Mindy Maslin


Pennsylvania Interfaith Climate Change Campaign

Joy Bergery, Project Director
1632 Chattin Road
Laverock, PA 19038
Tel: (215) 836-5978 | Fax: (412) 291-1192
E-mail: joybergey@earthlink.net
Web: www.webofcreation.org/ncc/Regional/Pennsylvania/penn.html

A multi-faith program working with congregations and people of faith to provide education about global warming and its impacts to encourage use of renewable energy and conservation measures and to promote participation in the political process by lay people and religious leaders. Speakers are available.

Pennsylvania Resources Council (PRC)

Larry D. Myers, Executive Director
3606 Providence Road
Newtown Square, PA 19073
Tel: (610) 353-1555 | Fax: (610) 353-6257
Web: www.prc.org
Memberships and volunteer opportu­nities available.
Founded in 1939, PRC is a non-profit membership supported organization dedicated to educating the public about resource conservation, waste reduction, environmental shopping and recycling. PRC operates an environmental living demonstration center at Ridley Creek State Park in suburban Philadelphia and a second regional office in Pittsburgh.
Publications:


Pennypack Ecological Restoration Trust

David Robertson, Executive Director
2955 Edgehill Road
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
Tel: (215) 657-0830 | Fax: (215) 657-1679
E-mail: pert@libertynet.org
Web: www.pennypacktrust.org
Memberships available

Pennypack Ecological Restora­tion Trust protects 720 acres in the central Pennypack Creek area. The mission is to develop methods of restoring a healthy forest ecosystem to a landscape influenced by agriculture, development and the pressure of non-native plants and animals.

Publications:


Philadelphia Department of Public Health, Air Management Services

Morris Fine, Director
321 University Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Tel: (215) 685-7585 | Fax: (215) 685-9451
Web: www.phila.gov/health/units/ams/index.html

Air Management Services (AMS) is the local governmental agency responsible for air pollution control in Philadelphia. AMS enforces federal, state and local laws that limit the emission of air pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, hydrocarbons, lead and asbestos from industrial, commercial and mobile sources. They do this through permit and license programs and by inspection and surveillance. AMS also provides technical support to the City's Air Pollution Control Board.

Publications:


Philadelphia Earth Force

Anne Rahn , Executive Director
100 Greenwood Avenue
Wyncote, PA 19095
Tel: (215) 884-9888 | Fax: (215) 884-9895
E-mail: delval@earthforce.org
Web: www.earthforce.org/delval

Earth Force is young people changing their communities and caring for our environment now, while developing life-long habits of active citizenship and environmental stewardship. The Earth Force Community Action and Problem Solving (CAPS) program combines the best practices in environmental education, service learning and civic education to engage middle-school students in community environmental problem solving. Earth Force trains educators and adult leaders in CAPS for implementation in schools, after school programs, and community based organizations. The CAPS program provides a fully developed framework for environmental action projects, including professionally developed leader manuals and student handbooks. Students themselves are responsible for the whole range of project activities that lead to sustainable positive changes in local environmental policy and practice. Earth Force also offers quality water monitoring products and supplemental environmental curricula through its GREEN (Global Rivers Environmental Education Network) program.


Philadelphia Local Emergency Planning Committee

Sally Hardy
249 Spring Garden Street
Philadelphia, PA 19123-2991
Tel: (215) 686-1103
E-mail: Pamela.Dorety@phila.gov
Membership dictated by SARA Title III law.
Seeking representatives from environmental organizations

The Philadelphia Local Planning Committee was appointed to implement SARA Title III, a hazardous and chemical emergency plan, and to provide information on hazardous chemicals to citizens of Philadelphia. Committee members include local agencies, local civic and environmental groups, and representatives of industrial facilities. The committee produces Environmental Fairs throughout the city.

Publications:


Philadelphia Parks Alliance

Lauren Bornfriend, Executive Director
Tel: 215.879.8159
E-mail: friends@philaparks.org
Web: www.philaparks.org

 

Philadelphia Partnership Recycling Program

Bob Pierson, Program Coordinator
318 Gaskill Street
Philadelphia, PA 19147
Tel: (215) 925-5971

The Philadelphia Partnership Recycling Program is a community-based recycling program established and supported by the Streets Department of the City of Philadelphia and administered by Phila Pride. Community groups sponsor recycling drop off locations on the first and third Saturdays of each month. Income earned by community groups through their volunteer efforts is spent on local projects for the public good. The program is supported by avoided costs of trash collection and disposal.
If you want to know how to get a partnership recycling program started in your community, call Bob Pierson at (215) 925-5971, and leave a message.

Participating Groups:


Philadelphia Recycling Office


Municipal Services Building Room 7SO
1401 John F. Kennedy Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA 19102-1664
Tel: (215) 686-5444 | Fax: (215) 686-5455
Recycling Hotline: (215) 685-RECYCLE
E-mail: sean.davies@phila.gov
Web: http://64.78.36.115

The Philadelphia Recycling Office (PRO) is the city's agency responsible for planning and administering thecitywide recycling program. The recycling program is comprised of citywide household recycling collections and drop-offs by the Streets Department, recycling programs organized by community groups and recycling in the commercial, governmental and institutional sectors. Residents can call the recycling hotline at: (215) 685-RECYCLE for recycling information.

Publications:


Philadelphia Solar Energy Association

Lisa Rose-Bryant
Tel: (610) 667-0412
E-mail: rose-bryant@erols.com
Web: www.phillysolar.org/psea.htm
Memberships available.

The Philadelphia Solar Energy Association (PSEA) is a non-profit educationally oriented organization. PSEA's focus is the promotion of alternative energies such as solar, wind and biofuels, as well as sustainable building practices. PSEA sponsors a lecture series and hosts the Junior Solar Sprint, an annual model solar car race for middle school students.


Philadelphia Water Department

Drew Brown, Manager of Public Education
1101 Market Street, 3rd Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Tel: (215) 685-6098 | Fax: (215) 685-6154
Web: www.phila.gov/water

The Philadelphia Water Department is a municipal utility that provides drinking water and wastewater treatment to Philadelphia and some surrounding communities. The Department offers community education and school programs, including pollution prevention and
tours of its water and wastewater treatment facilities and of the historic Fairmount Water Works.

Publications:


PHILAPOSH

Jim Moran, Director
3001 Walnut Street, 5th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Tel: (215) 386-7000 | Fax: (215) 386-3529
E-mail: philaposh@aol.com
Web: www.philaposh.org
Memberships available

Established in 1975, Philaposh is an independent, non-profit coalition of 200 unions in the tri-state area. The Coalition supplies information, education, technical assistance and political action on all issues relating to job safety and health emphasizing prevention of injury, illness and death on the job.

Publications:

 

Philly Walks


c/o Clean Air Council
135 S. 19th, Suite 300
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Tel: (215) 922-1843
Tel: (215) 567-4004 | Fax: (215) 567-5791
E-mail: elinn@cleanair.org
Web: www.cleanair.org/Transportation/phillywalks.html
Memberships available

Philly Walks is a not-for-profit, membership-based organization working to improve pedestrian accessibility and safety in Philadelphia and southeastern Pennsylvania. To do this, Philly Walks uses a variety of techniques, including, but not limited to, education, advocacy, and direct action. Philly Walks works to preserve and improve the walkability of our region so that people have real choices in mobility and transportation.

Publications:


PIRG Fuel Buyers

1218 Chestnut St., Suite 1003
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Tel:(215) 413-2122 | Fax: (215) 413-2140
E-mail: ecapstaff@theenergy.coop
Web: www.pirgfuelbuyers.com

The Public Interest Research Group's fuel buying club is the Delaware Valley's largest heating oil cooperative. Fuel Buyers protects consumers from price gouging by using group purchasing to save each consumer hundreds of dollars every heating season. All profits from PIRG Fuel Buyers go directly into environmental campaign work throughout the state, including pollution prevention, endangered species protection, and open space preservation.


The Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia

John Andrew Gallery, Executive Director
1616 Walnut Street, Suite 2310
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Tel: (215) 546-1146 | Fax: (215) 546-1180
Web: www.preservationalliance.com
Memberships available

The Alliance is the Philadelphia region's nonprofit preservation leader, dedicated to the protection and appropriate development of Greater Philadelphia's historic resources --buildings, communities, and landscapes. A membership organization, Alliance programs include facade easements and the provision of rehabilitation grants and technical assistance to stewards of historic religious properties and house museums. The Alliance also sponsors the Old House Fair and runs "behind the scenes" tours of historic places.

Publications:


Public Interest Law Center

Adam H. Cutler, Director, Public Health and Environmental Justice Clinic
125 South 9th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Tel: (215) 627-7100 | Fax: (215) 627-3183
E-mail: pilcop@pilcop.org
Web: www.pilcop.org

The Public Interest Law Center of Philadelphia is a non-profit law firm that specializes in representing individuals and groups to vindicate their civil rights under the Constitution or statutes. PILCOP provides protection to all people from environmental pollution.

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Riverbend Environmental Education Center

Laurie Bachman , Executive Director
1950 Spring Mill Road
Gladwyne, PA 19035
Tel: (610) 527-5234 | Fax: (610) 527-1161
Web: www.riverbendeec.org
Memberships available

The 30-acre Riverbend Environmental Education Center is a unique conservation area located an embankment over the Schuykill River in Gladwyne, PA. The full time staff of naturalists and related professionals oversees and administers a variety of programs for school groups, Scout Troops, families, and civic groups in the Philadelphia area. In the last year more than 10,000 people visited the facility.
There are a number of property features that make Riverbend an interesting destination for family day trips. Saw Mill Run is a rocky creek where children attending the summer day camps learn about watershed environmental issues. Bluebird Meadow serves as a wild animal habitat for species local to this area. The classic Sears & Roebuck barn echoes a time when farmers still ordered these structures from a catalogue (1923). It has been renovated and now houses Riverbend’s offices, indoor classrooms, library and meeting rooms. Finally there are the two miles of hiking paths through forests, hillsides and meadows – dogs on leash welcome.
Riverbend was founded as a non-profit nature preserve on land owned by Howard and Phoebe Wood and donated in their memory by their children. However to continue its valuable mission Riverbend is totally dependent on the support of the membership, private donations and grants. Maintaining the grounds would not be possible without the help of hundreds of community volunteers.
You and your family and friends are welcome to visit us free of charge from dawn to dusk, year round. For directions call us or use our Website.

Publications:


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The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education

Dennis Burton , Executive Director
8480 Hagy's Mill Road
Philadelphia, PA 19128
Tel: (215) 482-7300
Fax:(215) 482-8158
E-mail: scee@schuylkillcenter.org
Web: www.schuylkillcenter.org
Memberships available

The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education is a non-profit urban facility providing innovative environ mental education programs which include outreach, environmental resource and information, teacher enrichment and curriculum development, as well as community service programs. The Center maintains 500 acres of open space as a "living classroom" for teachers and students, prekindergarten through graduate school. The mission of the Schuylkill Center is to promote, through environmental education, the preservation and improvement of our natural environment by fostering appreciation, understanding and responsible use of the ecosystem; by disseminating information on current environmental issues: and by encouraging appropriate public responses to environmental problems.

Publications:


The Schuylkill River Development Council


2929 Arch Street
13th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19104-7395
Tel: (215) 222-6030, x103| Fax: (215) 222-6032
E-mail: info@schuylkillbanks.org.
Web: www.schuylkillbanks.org

The Schuylkill River Development Council (SRDC) is a nonprofit organization with a mission to achieve visible and positive change for the Tidal Schuylkill River for the benefit of citizens in Philadelphia and the Commonwealth. Its goal is to stimulate, promote and coordinate physical, social and economic improvements and to transform the river into a vital economic, social and environmental resource. SRDC and its partners seek to correct hundreds of years of neglect and abuse and set the river on a new course, one which will capitalize on its potential rather than its problems. To realize its vision, mission and goals, SRDC will lead and manage the revitalization of the Tidal Schuylkill River in partnership with public and private sector agencies. Its principal objectives are to: develop a realistic and effective Tidal Schuylkill Master Plan, work with stakeholders to initiate actionable change for the short and long term, foster community stewardship and participation, serve as an information resource, initiate recreational and educational programs which will benefit the region, encourage cooperation and team work between environmental and economic interests, promote commerce and tourism on the waterfront, and facilitate coordination between federal, state and municipal agencies.

Publications:



SEPTA (Southeastern PA Transportation Authority)

Executive Offices
1234 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Tel: (215) 580-7800 (Travel Information Center Number)
(215) 580-7777 (Timetables)
Web: www.septa.org

Created by the State Legislature in 1964, SEPTA was formed to preserve, maintain, and improve regional transportation in the five-county Greater Philadelphia area. As the nation's fourth largest public transportation system, SEPTA'S nearly 2,500 vehicles provide 3,600 route miles of bus, regional rail, and subway and trolley service.

Publications:


Sierra Club: Southeastern PA Group

Ron Beaudet, Chair
Sierra Club SPG
P.O. Box 34659
Philadelphia, PA 19101
Tel: (215) 592-4063
Web: pennsylvania.sierraclub.org/southeastern
Memberships and numerous volunteer opportunities available.
The local group of the national Sierra Club educates members, students, and the public on ways to prevent environmental pollution and protect the public's health. The Club works, both as individuals and in concert with others, to promote the enjoyment and protection of the natural outdoors. Its Inner City Outings (ICO) program offers an opportunity for many children to experience nature in an outdoor setting for the very first time. ICO utilizes trained adult volunteers to lead its outings.
Publications:


Sustainable Development Fund


The Reinvestment Fund
718 Arch Street, Suite 300 North
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Tel. (215) 574-5800 | Fax (215) 574-5900
E-mail: info@trfund.com
Web: www.trfund.com/sdf

The Sustainable Development Fund (SDF) was established to help create a sustainable energy future for southeastern Pennsylvania. SDF supports renewable and clean energy ventures through its lending and investing activities. SDF is managed by The Reinvestment Fund, a large regional non-profit development finance corporation that operates in five states and is capitalized with funds from more than 850 social investors.


Sustainable Society Action Project Inc.

Ernest B Cohen
525 Midvale Road
Upper Darby, PA 19082-3607
Tel: (610) 352-2689
E-mail: SSAPinc@aol.com
Web: http://ssapinc.org

The Sustainable Society Action Project was started in 1990 to help people in the Delaware Valley evolve a Sustainable social economy on Planet Earth. Sustainability requires designing a new social economy so that the most important benefits of modem technology and industrialization will be available to humans in the foreseeable future. The needs of the present generation should be met without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.

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10,000 Friends of Pennsylvania

Marilyn Wood, Director, Southeast Pennsylvania Metropolitan Development Caucus
The Philadelphia Building
1315 Walnut Street, Suite 710
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Tel: (215) 985-3201 | Fax: (215) 985-3207
E-mail: info@10000friends.org
Web: www.10000friends.org
Memberships and volunteer and intern opportunities available.

10,000 Friends is an alliance of organizations and individuals committed to promoting land use policies and actions that will enable Pennsylvania to strengthen its diverse urban, suburban, and rural communities and reduce sprawl.
10,000 Friends seeks growth and development that will support the economic and social viability of Pennsylvania's cities and towns,
conserve fiscal resources, and protect our state's exceptional natural landscapes, environmental quality, and heritage resources.

Transport Workers Union Local #234

Jeff Brooks, President
223 East Spring Garden
Philadelphia, PA 19130
Tel: (215) 972-4140 | Fax: (215) 496-9041
E-mail: twgroup234@aol.com
Web: http://www.twulocal234.com

TWU Local #234 represents over 5,600 bus drivers and mechanics that operate SEPTA, the region's public transit system. Progressive fighters for the interests of working people and the planet, the TWU is deeply involved in promoting mass transit as a means of reducing air pollution and the greenhouse effect.

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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Region 3

Customer Service Hotline
Tel: (800) 438-2474 | Fax: (215) 814-5103
1650 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Web: www.epa.gov/region03

The U.S. EPA is responsible for implementing the federal laws designated to protect the environment. EPA is a regulatory agency dealing with air and water quality, hazardous waste management, control of toxic substances, pesticides, radiation and pollution prevention. Region III provides oversight and technical assistance to state and local officials in PA, DE, ND, VA, WVA, and DC.

Publications:


U.S. EPA Public Information Center (PIC)

1650 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Tel: (215) 814-5663 | Fax: (215) 814-5103
Web: http://www.epa.gov/region03

The EPA's PIC offers the public access to the information about the EPA and the environment through exhibits, videos, literature and
displays. Information is also available on environmental careers, databases, bulletin boards, education, and more through our computer network. Tours and Presentations can also be arranged. No charge.
Hours: M-F 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.

Publications:


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Weavers Way Cooperative Association

559 West Carpenter Lane
Philadelphia, PA 19119
Tel: (215) 843-2350 | Fax: (215) 843-6945
Web: www.weaversway.org
Memberships available

Weavers Way is a member owned and operated co-operative food store and new members are always welcome. The store has a wide variety of organic and natural foods and environmentally-friendly products.
The Co-op Environment Committee runs a recycling program on the third Saturday of every month. The co-op also has a credit union, provides discounts with area merchants, offers health and dental purchase, and offers cooperative oil purchase. All shoppers must be members.

Hours:

Monday-Friday

9-8

Saturday, Sunday

9-6

 

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