Listen to interviews with Mayor George Heartwell about green initiatives in Grand Rapids, which has an Office of Energy and Sustainability. Heartwell commends Mary Buikema and Habitat for Humanity of Kent County for building green.

Does your community meet Tree City USA standards? Follow West Michigan Environmental Action Council's lead in building rain gardens.

Design your own green building tour by visiting these local colleges and community facilities. Grand Rapids Public Schools students interested in green building may apply to Union Academy for Design and Construction. Area colleges with courses, certificates, clubs, degrees, majors, minors or job training in environmental issues include Aquinas College, Calvin College, Grand Rapids Community College and Grand Valley State University.