Welcome to the first, of what I hope will be many, hidden Green stories happening in the Metro Detroit area.
After years of learning, educating, and networking in the Metro Detroit area in what some call the Green industry, I have many stories bouncing around in my head that are waiting to be told; many that will surprise and perhaps enlighten you.
Like many other people in the Detroit area, I was looking for the hope of a new business opportunity for myself and my coworkers. With the gloomy economy of the auto industry collapsing, I was looking for a glimmer of hope and possible solutions – and many people still are. This brought me to the Green industry.
Over the last few years I’ve witnessed dozens of entrepreneurs looking to launch new energy-saving products; many capitalists looking for new business opportunities; CEOs and CFOs looking to reduce costs and increase their bottom line; students and universities researching and educating; nonprofits stretching out their hands; organizations, municipalities and political leaders all trying to grasp what Green means to them and their communities.
How do I get my product to market? Can I make a career out of this industry? Does the State of Michigan really have what it takes to be a leader in alternative energies? What does green or sustainable really mean? These are many of the questions I’ve heard from people in Michigan over the last couple of years.
There are many exciting stories about new businesses, products and corporations stepping up to the plate. Corporate Social Responsibility can be found in many companies across the country, and right here in Michigan.
However, there are also smaller, perhaps more important stories to be told. These are individual stories, that when told separately are heart-warming and inspiring, but when put together, create one large story – that Metro Detroit is quietly staging its own Green movement. Stories that, when put together, become a whole that is greater than its parts.
If you dare to dive into this new and evolving Green industry, you will quickly realize just how very personal this movement is to everyone. Not just for the hope of future jobs in Michigan, but for our health, our children and for our communities.
I can’t tell you if Green is the answer for Metro Detroit, or if Michigan will become a leader in alternative energies. However, in this column on GreeningDetroit.com, I can bring you the untold stories to help you decide for yourself.
Please check back in the near future to learn about Philip Cooley, owner of Slows BBQ and his Green initiatives right here in Detroit.
Keeping it Green, Connie
Connie Lilley – Public Relations, GreeningDetroit.com
Connie has a degree in Journalism/Public Relations from Madonna University and is Green Advantage Environmental Certified
