September 30, 2020 Community Stories

Fighting the Global Climate Crisis—Locally

“My fear is that life on this planet is not going to continue,” says Nancy Hazard of Greenfield.

Fear—of nuclear destruction and climate change—has driven her to seek solutions for protecting and repairing the earth. It’s a mission she’s pursued for decades.

Hazard has built solar homes, led the Tour de Sol (“America’s green car competition and festival”), and championed a study of Greenfield’s energy consumption to help the town save money and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. She volunteers with Greenfield’s Tree Committee.

Hazard also directs dollars to local environmental causes from a donor advised fund she established at the Community Foundation.

“Searching for climate change solutions has led me to learn many things about fossil fuels and their alternatives—solar, wind, and water. And the Community Foundation has introduced me to local projects.”

Habitat for Humanity’s pilot project to build zero-net-energy homes intrigued Hazard. “I thought, ‘I’d love to make that happen!’ I care about low-income people, and wouldn’t it be great if Habitat could build three to five homes each year that have very low utility bills. Solar panels would produce as much energy as the house uses.”

She supports another favorite cause—community farming—through Just Roots in Greenfield. “They’re growing food and making it available to everyone, including people who don’t normally have access to fresh food. And, they’re doing fascinating research with the Community Health Center of Franklin County to track whether eating healthy food actually improves health.”

Throughout her life, said Hazard, “I’ve gravitated toward finding solutions.” Greenfield is better for it.