Greenerpalooza shows why Greenopia ranked New Hampshire one of the 10 greenest states in the nation, said NH Division of Economic Development Communications and Legislative Director Steve Boucher, citing the ranking of states that measures air and water quality, recycling rates, LEED buildings, per capita emissions and other factors.
Boucher said he expects 5,000 to 6,000 fans at this year's event. Just as music brings people together to support worthy causes, Greenerpalooza brings together dozens of green businesses from around the state in an eco-village on Meadowbrook's midway. These businesses showcase ways residents can go green by adopting more environmentally-friendly practices and by using green products and services produced right here in New Hampshire, Boucher said.
Public Service of New Hampshire, a founding sponsor of the event and the state's largest electric utility, has increased its share of renewable energy to include the highest percentage of any major utility in New England. According to Pat McDermott, PSNH's economic and community development manager, We see Greenerpalooza as a terrific way to build awareness of issues like recycling and making energy efficiency improvements. They're simple, cost effective ways to make a big difference in protecting the environment. We've seen the impact at PSNH: Since 2003, our customers have reduced air emissions by more than 4.5 million tons by participating in PSNH's portfolio of energy-efficiency programs. That's equivalent to the annual emissions of more than 850,000 cars. Plus these programs have saved customers more than $1 billion.
Boucher says Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion, which prides itself on being environmentally conscious, is the ideal venue for Greenerpalooza. Meadowbrook offers artists the option of producing completely green stage shows by using a biodiesel-fueled generator that's capable of producing enough power for even the biggest national touring acts. The venue's food service uses recyclable/compostible cups and plates made from corn, while the office uses recycled materials for as many office supplies as possible. Meadowbrook even reserves its first parking lot for attendees who carpool with at least four people per vehicle.
What makes Meadowbrook unique is this beautiful location on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, explains Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion Marketing Director Chris Lockwood. It gives us a real appreciation for the environment. That's why incorporating green practices and technology just makes sense to us.
Each year, Meadowbrook has booked international stars known for their environmental activism to play Greenerpalooza. Past acts have included Sheryl Crow and Colbie Caillat (2010), Jackson Browne and Shawn Colvin (2009), and Crosby, Stills and Nash (2008). This year's headliner, Alison Krauss and Union Station, who released a new record, Paper Airplane, in April, are long-time environmental advocates. Krauss, who has won 26 Grammy awards, plays benefit concerts for environmental causes, including for the Natural Resources Defense Council in support of their work against mountaintop-removal coal mining, which has had a devastating effect on communities in Appalachia. The second stage act, the Adam Ezra Group, are also activists, contributing 25 percent of their touring to benefit causes in communities across the country and worldwide.
Tickets to Greenerpalooza, which include entry into the eco-village, are available online at www.meadowbrook.net. To learn more about the latest happenings with Greenerpalooza, visit the Greenerpalooza IV Facebook page at www.facebook.com/greennh. A limited number of vendor slots for green businesses are still available for $200. Contact Dawn Escabi at dawn.escabi@dred.state.nh.us or 603-271-2591.
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