In this issue...

• Napa Countywide Community Climate Action Framework
• Green Gets Going in Food Service
• Water Conservation Showcase
• Fix a Leak Week
• Musings...
• Save the date: Mark your calendar for these local events

Napa Countywide Community Climate Action Framework draft released
The Napa County Transportation and Planning Agency (NCTPA) released the Napa Countywide Community Climate Action Framework draft in late 2009 and is in the process of presenting the plan to local governments and gathering public input. The framework is based on greenhouse gas (GHG) emission modeling and analysis and was developed with the input from the County of Napa, the cities of American Canyon, Napa, St. Helena and Calistoga, and the Town of Yountville and it will serve as the policy guide for local jurisdictions as they design their own specific GHG emission reduction plans. The NCTPA is presenting the plan to the Napa County Board of Supervisors on March 16. The Board will also receive the Emission Reduction Plan for County Operations. Watch for more news of public meetings on the Climate Action Framework during the month of April.

Green Gets Going in Foodservice
From Foodservice Equipment & Supplies Magazine
Overall foodservice business activity still seems to be lagging, many companies report. But one aspect of the industry that has continued to gain momentum is the movement among foodservice operators to implement more-sustainable practices. From energy and water management to sourcing more products locally, the foodservice industry steadily has worked toward becoming more environmentally friendly. Read the entire article featuring SNC’s Sustainable Hospitality Task Force Chair, Ellyn Elson.

Water concerns addressed at showcase
Many experts believe that water will surpass energy as the most coveted resource in California. Unpredictable levels of precipitation and other source issues, climate change, population growth, and risks to the infrastructure are some of the water-related concerns facing the state today. The 7th Annual Water Conservation Showcase will address many of these issues through presentations and displays. Information on water-conserving strategies, the energy and water relationship, policy updates, technological developments, and case studies will also be included. Tuesday, March 23, 2010, 10:00 am to 6:30 pm at the Pacific Energy Center, 851 Howard Street, San Francisco. This event is free to the public. To register as an attendee or learn more go to the Water Conservation Showcase page.

Speaking of water…
Did you know that an American home can waste, on average, more than 10,000 gallons of water every year due to running toilets, dripping faucets, and other household leaks? Being handy around the house doesn’t have to be difficult. Leaky toilet flappers, faucets, and other valves are easy to fix and usually require only a few tools and hardware. March 15 to 21 is "Fix a Leak" week. Learn more...

Musings...
by SNC CEO – Jeri Gill
If there’s one thing that’s clear to me it is this: if you live in Napa County and have an interest in issues related to sustainability (and what issue isn’t when you think about it?) there is no shortage of ways to get involved, make a difference, learn something new, or meet others who share your interests. From recycling programs that require nothing but putting your old stuff out on the curb to increasingly popular social gatherings like Napa Green Drinks there is truly something for everyone. While this variety of information and activities is good, it can also be a bit overwhelming. And it might leave you with that lingering sense of not knowing what steps to take next or even where to start. From one who is also involved in the local wine industry and is often asked wine advice, I use a similar approach and offer similar advice: start with what you like. Does energy light you up? Learn more about how to conserve it and new ways to use it wisely. Is it a water issue that floats your boat? Stay current on what’s happening with local water saving efforts and look into efficient and drought tolerant landscaping. Do waste issues divert your attention? Make a point to get informed about the hierarchy of trash from reuse to recycling. Remember, you don’t have to do everything all at once and you don’t have to do it in grand fashion. Keep it simple, arm yourself with new information, resources and quite possibly new friends, and go from there. And don’t forget to become a fan of SNC. We are feeling quite hip now that we are on Facebook. Post comments, share your views on current sustainability related issues, and connect with others who are interested in environmental, economic and community vitality in Napa County and beyond.

Save the Date

E-Waste Curbside Pickup Event
Napa Recycling and Waste Services in partnership with the Napa Valley District Boy Scouts
Saturday, March 20 - Place your items curbside by 8:00 am

Annual Northern California Recycling Association (NCRA) Recycling Update
At NCRA’s 15th-annual Recycling update, you’ll hear a wide range of industry experts speak about the latest developments in recycling and composting.
March 23rd - 8:30 am - 4:30 pm at the Elihu M. Harris State Office Building, 1515 Clay Street, Oakland

Making Cents out of Solar
Napa Valley Solar Partnership
Saturday, March 20 at 10 am - Grace Episcopal Church 1314 Spring St. St. Helena,
Saturday, April 17 from 11 am to 3 pm - Calistoga Green Fair, Pioneer Park

First Annual Napa Environmental Film Festival
This festival features several films about locally grown food. Come and see an exciting line up of eco-films, discussions and green exhibits! Healthy snacks and silent auction to benefit Valley Oak High School’s Seeds of Sustainability Program.
March 19-21, NVUSD District Auditorium, 2475 Jefferson Street, Napa 

Wine Country Hospitality Symposium
Napa Valley College Hospitality Institute is hosting a full day of training for owners, managers and supervisory staff in the hospitality industry. The Symposium features speakers and breakout sessions and includes a lunch and wine reception. Get an overview of current trends in our marketplace and strategies for innovative marketing, best practices in social media for hospitality, superior customer service and green operations.
Tuesday, March 30, Napa Valley College, Upper Valley Campus - St. Helena