The EF-5 tornado that struck Joplin, Missouri on May 22, 2011 was a disaster on a scale that few communities have ever had to deal with in the U.S. And while the tragedy has been almost overwhelming in its scope, there are unique possibilities for the recovery. The Association for Sustainability, through our subsidiary Greensburg GreenTown, has worked with Joplin residents and sustainability experts from throughout southwest Missouri to launch GreenTown Joplin. Our mission is to help Joplin recover as sustainably as possible, and serve as a model for other communities. We have several projects underway and are in the planning stages of implementing some great ideas in Joplin.

Members of the GreenTown Joplin committee include people with expertise in green building, energy efficiency, water conservation, renewable energy, healthy living, sustainable agriculture, and other related areas. GreenTown Joplin members have worked closely with local residents and business owners who have an interest in building back homes and office buildings with an eye toward greater energy efficiency and durability. Not only do we provide free consultation to these folks, but we also help publicize and promote their projects as a way of inspiring others to do likewise.

We are working with architecture students at Drury University’s Hammons School of Architecture (down the road in Springfield) to design and construct a model demonstration home in the tornado recovery area. The Monarch Eco-Home will be a place where local people and visitors can learn about sustainability in its many facets, and even spend the night in our bed and breakfast suite. We are aiming for a house that will produce at least as much energy as it uses (net zero).

We have a prominent profile in the community and offer information at no charge about sustainable practices through educational booths at public events, workshops, media interviews, and on our website and Facebook page. We continue to play an important role in bringing people together who share similar visions for Joplin’s sustainable future, and working within existing frameworks to contribute our experience and knowledge.

GreenTown Joplin is working alongside the City of Joplin and the City’s master developer, Wallace Bajjali, to plan and develop a model green neighborhood. This project is in the planning stages and possibilities are enormous for a showcase of green technologies and building practices.

Please check back to follow our progress - both here and on the GreenTown Joplin website.