Meet Region’s Newest Green Group at North Adams Downtown Celebration

The Berkshire Eagle   reports the Downtown Celebration will be here Wednesday, and this year there will be a greener tint to it — a new group of environmental activists will be making its first appearance at the annual shindig.

"GreeNA is a newly formed citizen's committee promoting sustainability in North Adams, similar to Williamstown's Cool Committee," said Jennifer Dunning, one of the founders of the group.

The North Adams Downtown Celebration will fill downtown North Adams from 5:30 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday. It is free and open to the public. The rain date is Thursday, but forecasters see clear skies ahead.

Every year, hundreds of locals and visitors flock downtown for food, shopping, giveaways, music, performances, games and activities, this year including GreeNA.

The GreeNA volunteer group is looking for ways to achieve a list of goals that include: improving trash policies, educating folks about reducing waste and limiting single-use plastic consumption, better recycling, and exploring municipal composting; promoting environmental issues and practices in schools; ensuring that the water and soil are free of contaminants; protecting the Hoosic River flood plain for future agricultural uses; and preserving green space in the city.

Also on hand during the celebration is the group's new plastic-eating pig. The handmade animal facsimile will be at the GreeNA table, presumably chowing down on single-use plastic items.