Project EverGreen is expanding its mission in response to a new survey it conducted, which showed that consumers understand the physical and psychological benefits of creating green spaces.
Key initiatives and local revitalization projects won’t change, the nonprofit said, but it will change the way it communicates with consumers.
“Regardless of company and what you sell, who you serve, one of the ways we’re united is our universal belief that a greener earth results in a cooler earth,” said Dan Carrothers, Project EverGreen’s board chair and global business manager at Emery Oleochemicals. “And we know, greener and cooler contributes to make each of us healthier and happier as it assures we’ll have access to areas that feed our physical and psychological needs—whether that’s a plant on a balcony, a well-maintained yard or a park that is the center of activity in a community.”
Project EverGreen’s new mission, according to the organization, is to encourage consumers to join in the creation of managed yards, parks and green spaces in their communities. It also hopes to bring together like-minded groups and individuals to raise awareness and engagement in these projects.
“The new mission for Project EverGreen more accurately reflects who we are and what we do,” said Cindy Code, executive director of Project EverGreen. “Since our inception, we have been the conduit to bringing like-minded groups and individuals together to revitalize yards, parks and green spaces and to share the physical, psychological and social benefits of those areas with consumers.”
Of 1,200 U.S. adults surveyed, more than 50 percent of respondents who describe themselves as charitable givers rated Project EverGreen favorably. It was also rated favorably by nearly every demographic, including men and women, young and old, and those of varying socioeconomic statuses. The group’s message elicited the following responses:
- The mention of a healthier, cooler environment made me think;
- It’s important that people work together to benefit our planet and health, and the health of future generations;
- Without bringing people together, nothing can be accomplished and sustained as a goal; and
- The mission explains not only the beauty of outdoor green spaces, but also the importance of the health of that space.
Project EverGreen hopes its new focus will help raise social consciousness about creating a healthier earth for future generations, the organization said.
“There’s only one earth; we get only one chance at this,” said Carrothers. “We’re confident that as an industry, partnering with consumers, we can create an earth that is greener and cooler; and assure that we’re leaving an earth to the generations to come that will contribute to the healthiness and happiness for all.”
