Natural State Expo 2006

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   The Arkansas Sustainability Network will present the first annual Natural State Expo this Saturday, October 7, at the Statehouse Convention Center. The Natural State Expo promises to showcase “the sustainable side of Arkansas.”  Over 60 exhibition booths will feature environmentally friendly products, services, and technology from Arkansas businesses, nonprofit organizations, and state and city agencies.  The exhibition booths will be accompanied by a youth activity area and a series of panel discussions on sustainable agriculture, solar energy, and water resources.    

   “Arkansans are increasingly concerned about the environment but too often feel that there is nothing they can do about it,” said Danielle de Preux, Coordinator of the Arkansas Sustainability Network.  “I think Arkansans will be amazed when they see resources that are already available for living an environmentally-friendly life in the Natural State.  And the organizations in attendance at the Natural State Expo represent only the beginning of what is possible for Arkansas.  We have a wonderful opportunity to protect our environment, improve our health, grow our economy, and strengthen our communities all at the same time.”  

   The exhibitors include the solar technology company Stellar Sun Solar Supply; Ifrah Financial; the Arkansas chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council; other nonprofit organizations such as the Nature Conservancy, the Sierra Club, Heifer International, and Winrock International; and government agencies such as the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality and City of Little Rock Parks and Recreation. The list of exhibitors, along with the schedule for the panel discussions and other information, can be found at www.naturalstateexpo.org.  

   Local artist John Deering will paint an original work between noon and 3:00 p.m.  The painting will then be auctioned off, with the proceeds to benefit the Arkansas Sustainability Network.   

   “We want the Natural State Expo to be a sustainable event,” de Preux explained.  “That’s why we’re encouraging people to ride their bicycles to the Expo by offering free “valet” bicycle parking and free admission for bicycle riders.  Also, Madison County Solid Waste and Recycling, one of our exhibitors, will take care of recycling for the Expo.  And many of the decorations are made from recycled materials.”   

   The Natural State Expo will take place from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 7.  The morning hours are open to the public, but designated as an exhibitor networking time as well.  The admission price for the Expo is $1.00, and entry is free for those who come on a bicycle or those who run the Race for the Cure.  

   The Arkansas Sustainability Network (ASN) is a non-profit, membership-based educational organization with a mission to empower Arkansans to develop sustainable communities.  We promote understanding of sustainability and awareness of local, national, and international resources that assist in achieving the goals of sustainable development.