Weavers Way’s Evening with Philadelphia Director of Sustainability, Mark Alan Hughes

This past Sunday, Nov. 9, Weavers Way Co-op hosted a discussion at North by Northwest (7165 Germantown Ave.) on sustainability issues in our city. The discussion’s special guest was Dr. Mark Alan Hughes, Director of Sustainability for the City of Philadelphia.

Dr. Hughes has a vital role in Philadelphia. Since this past spring’s appointment by Mayor Nutter, Hughes has served as the Mayor’s Senior Advisor and has worked closely with the Managing Director, Deputy Mayors and other heads of Departments to coordinate sustainability policies across Philly government.

Situated in the Mayor’s Office, Huges is responsible for developing, implementing and overseeing the City’s green policies and initiatives. As Hughes said, “Local governments are on the front lines when it comes to dealing with climate change and environmental issues. Our goal, here in Philadelphia, is to move the sustainability agenda further and faster than in any city in the United States.” His priorities have included:
• Creating and leading a Sustainability Cabinet comprised of department heads and senior administration officials
• Coordinating sustainability efforts of City agencies and departments, & working with a variety of partners through a Sustainability Advisory Group
• Expanding green building initiatives & creation of green collar jobs
• Developing a comprehensive plan for auditing & reducing energy use in city-owned buildings.

When announcing his pick, Mayor Nutter urged all organizations and sectors in Philadelphia to be pioneers in their sustainability efforts. As Mayor Nutter said, “If we are going to become the greenest city in the United States, then all of us in Philadelphia need to be working towards that common goal. Whether city government, private industry, non-profit organizations, or private citizens, we all need to make every effort to conserve resources, to reduce waste, and to promote sustainable methods of living and doing business.”

Patrick Starr, Vice President of the Pennsylvania Environmental Council, welcomed Hughes’ appointment. “Sustainability is as much about supporting families with good jobs, quality homes, and clean transportation alternatives as it is traditional environmental issues. Mark’s policy background and practical experience in these fields will enable him to blend land use planning, housing and green-collar job opportunities into a compelling sustainability agenda for a competitive Philadelphia.”

Weavers Way is a member-owned food co-op founded in 1973 by a group of neighbors in Mt. Airy with 3,300 member households, 60 employees, and two stores, with revenues approaching $8 million. Weavers Way is a great source of reasonably priced, fresh, local, and organic foods and other unique products, and is also an integral part of the community. Membership in the Co-op is open to everyone, and all are encouraged to join. For more information about membership, visit Weavers Way Co-op or call Robin Cannicle at 215-843-6552.

Posted by Julie

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Julie Hancher is Editor-in-Chief of Green Philly, sharing her expertise of all things sustainable in the city of brotherly love. She enjoys long walks in the park with local beer and greening her travels, cooking & cat, Sir Floofus Drake. View all posts by Julie Hancher