Pablo Martinez Monsivais/AP
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The warning sirens that went off in Greensburg on May 4, 2007, signaled what could have been the end of this small Kansas town. Moments later a tornado ripped through the community, destroying 95 percent of the buildings and taking 11 lives. In the wake of this tragedy, amidst the debris and destruction, Greensburg's survivors chose to rebuild their town in a way that would be better for the environment and serve as a model for the rest of the nation.
Almost two years later, President Barack Obama called Mayor Bob Dixson to Washington, DC, to honor Greensburg's efforts. During his address to a joint session of Congress, Obama said:
| I think about Greensburg, Kansas, a town that was completely destroyed by a tornado, but is being rebuilt by its residents as a global example of how clean energy can power an entire community— how it can bring jobs and businesses to a place where piles of bricks and rubble once lay. |
Greensburg's rebuilding effort, beyond being a source of hope and inspiration, is an example of how choosing to go green can help propel development, improve the economy, and reconnect a community that has faced hardships and challenges.
Obama told Congress "'the tragedy was terrible,' said one of the men who helped them rebuild. 'But the folks here know that it also provided an incredible opportunity.'" The opportunity, Dixson explained, is not simply a chance to rebuild what was lost, but to make it better for people.
Read more about Greensburg and the rebuilding process.
If you want to see what rebuilding a town and going green looks like firsthand, check out Planet Green's Greensburg webisodes.
Have a question about Greensburg or something to share? Jump into the discussion in the Greensburg forums.
Read more about helping your community go green:
Why to Go Green
How to Go Green: In the Community
Organize a Neighborhood Cleanup in 6 Steps
Grow a Community Garden
Talking the Talk, Greening the Block
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