Celebrate Earth Month: How Tri-Valley Is Going Green
By Margy Lyman 

April is Earth Month, and here in the Tri-Valley, we have so much to celebrate—and so many ways to get involved.

Whether you're a longtime resident or new to the area, there's something truly special about the way our community comes together to care for the environment. From rolling vineyards to sprawling open spaces, the Tri-Valley’s natural beauty is something worth protecting—and this month is the perfect time to take action.

Local Green Initiatives Worth Supporting

Here are just a few of the incredible eco-conscious programs making a difference in our backyard:

1. Sustainable Danville Area
This nonprofit organization hosts educational events, cleanups, and promotes sustainable living practices across Danville and beyond. They’ve helped bring everything from bike-friendly infrastructure to plastic-free challenges to the forefront.

2. Livermore’s Climate Action Plan
Livermore is leading by example with its long-term plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The city is investing in renewable energy, electric vehicle infrastructure, and water conservation efforts.

3. Pleasanton’s Recycle Where? Program
This tool makes it easier than ever to recycle right. Just plug in an item—whether it’s a lightbulb, mattress, or old sneakers—and it’ll tell you how to dispose of it properly in Pleasanton.

Easy Ways You Can Celebrate Earth Month

You don’t have to go zero-waste overnight to make a difference. Here are a few ways you can pitch in locally this month:

• Join a local cleanup. Cities like Dublin and San Ramon are hosting park and creek cleanups this month—bring the kids and make it a family day!
  
  

• Support local farmers. Visit the Tri-Valley farmers' markets for fresh, local produce that hasn’t traveled thousands of miles to get to your plate.
  
  

• Plant native species. Organizations like the Livermore-Amador Valley Garden Club offer workshops and tips on low-water native landscaping that supports pollinators and reduces water use.
  
  

• Go car-free for a day. Take advantage of our walkable downtowns and the Iron Horse Trail for a scenic way to commute or run errands.
  
  

Spotlight on Jennifer Newton & Team Eco

This Earth Month, I’m thrilled to highlight the inspiring work of Jennifer Newton, co-chair of the Alamo Rotary Environmental Committee, also known as Team Eco. Jennifer and I share a passion for environmental stewardship, and her efforts are making a tangible impact in our community.

Team Eco focuses on local and global environmental issues, aiming to raise awareness among Alamo residents about global environmental concerns that we can address as a local community. They launch activities that reduce waste and promote stewardship of our planet. It’s all about taking small steps here at home to make a difference globally.

One of their significant initiatives is working to reduce plastic waste in local restaurants. Inspired by steps taken in places like Tahoe and Alameda, Team Eco is striving to bring similar initiatives to our area. Additionally, they organize quarterly community cleanups, picking up trash along roads to keep it out of our streams, with hopes to grow these efforts with help from local schools.

Jennifer's dedication is truly commendable. You can watch our full conversation here: Click here to read more and watch the full interview

Why This Matters

As someone who lives, works, and raises a family in this beautiful valley, I believe we all have a part to play in keeping it vibrant for generations to come. Earth Month is a reminder that small, mindful choices—when made collectively—can add up to something much bigger.

Let’s continue to build a community that not only thrives but also respects the land it stands on.

I’d Love to Hear From You!

If you know of a local organization or event making a green impact in the Tri-Valley, reach out! I’m always looking to spotlight community heroes who make our neighborhoods better.

—
Margy Lyman
Real Estate Professional & Tri-Valley Neighbor
www.livethetrivalleylife.com