Local eco-organization Cool Planet may not be new (they were established in Edina in 2007), but they are always working on new ways to engage the community, get everyone talking about climate change, and figure out some homegrown solutions—from the grass roots, up.
The mission of Cool Planet co-founder (also a Morningside resident and member of Edina’s Energy and Environment Commission) Paul Thompson is to foster a more sustainable future. “Cool Planet’s efforts reinforce community initiatives, such as the recently approved solar panels on City Hall and the sustainable measures incorporated into the new Public Works facility,” he says. The new bike lanes along 70th Street “link lifestyle with climate concerns; these are commonsense efforts.”
While immersed in local sustainability endeavors, Thompson’s work is balanced with broader global concerns. Thompson attended the last three annual United Nation climate change conferences, the most recent in Durban, South Africa. “It’s a chance to learn more, network with delegates and lobby decision makers from all over the world,” he explains.
As a retired elementary educator, Thompson is particularly keen on education and outreach. His environmental interests will be on display during an event this month (co-sponsored by Cool Planet), titled “Edina Dialogue: The Environment, Economy and Food Supply from Global to Local.” Just a few days before Earth Day, the April 19 free event will be held at Edina High School’s Fick Auditorium, with featured keynote speaker Dr. Jonathan Foley, director of the University of Minnesota Institute on the Environment.
A dinner and social hour will take place at 6 p.m. (with proceeds going to the Edina Schools Go Green Committee) and Dr. Foley will speak at 7 p.m., followed by a Q & A and a panel discussion with local leaders. A resource fair will run 6–9 p.m.
For more information on Cool Planet, visit coolplanetmn.org. For additional information on the April 19th event, visit edinacommunityfoundation.org.
