Five local artists were recently selected by a jury of arts and environmental professionals to participate in GLEAN, a program that will send them sorting through the region's trash in search of creative answers to the region's excessive waste generation.

Pediatricians group advises protecting children from exposure

As you pull out the mower or start plotting for a new garden bed, remember: garden chemicals can be harmful to humans, pets, wildlife and waterways. A recent statement from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) points to what many studies have already told us: pesticides can be harmful, and children should be protected from exposure. According to the AAP, "Prenatal and early childhood exposure to pesticides is associated with pediatric cancers, decreased cognitive function and behavioral problems."

Far from the maddening crowds on snow-covered peaks or sandy beaches, many stay-at-home spring breakers in the Portland metropolitan area are knee-deep in another untracked powder. Their plans to shred have nothing to do with executing rapid and repeated turns on short boards. Rather, they will spend time this week wading into cluttered homes, offices and garages to sort, separate and prepare to dispose of an astounding 280 tons more trash and recyclables than the weekly average.

It’s official. Spring is here. Early sunny days pull many out of winter hibernation to open the windows and dig into a little deep cleaning. Spring also marks the planning season for warm-weather projects, from home repair to gardening. As you clean and care for your home, make sure you protect your family, pets, waterways and wildlife from toxic products.

Metro's parks and venues offer a variety of recreation opportunities during a spring break staycation, from hiking, to seeing a concert, to even helping finally organize your garage.

For many of the Portland region's residents, next week means spring break. If you're not packing your bags for warmer weather, there's plenty to do with extra time off right here at home.

Three prominent Portland event venues are putting sustainability in the hands of their visitors with new compostable cups at all onsite concessions.

A call to artists is going out for GLEAN, an art and education program that promotes new ways of thinking about conserving resources, art and the environment. The deadline for applications is Thursday, Jan. 31, 2013.

Last fall, Recycle at Work, a recycling program fueled by Metro an other local governances, to recognize companies with a drive to reduce their waste output. CD Baby, a local online music store that participated in the program, won the bike raffle incentive to crack down on waste.

Sixteen projects to benefit residents, protect nature in Northwest Portland

The Metro Council late last week approved a $79,000 care package for nonprofits that serve local residents and restore sensitive habitat in Northwest and a slice of North Portland. Funds will result in direct aid to some of the most fragile people and places in the area.

Long-term, maximum benefits to local residents envisioned for use of funds

The Metro Council late last week approved a resolution to spend the remaining $1.6 million in the North Portland enhancement fund by 2018 on a local trail and select neighborhood improvement projects proposed by the community. The council’s unanimous vote supported the recommendation of a committee comprised of North Portland residents that administers the fund.