Austin gets greener with Earth Day

AUSTIN (KXAN) - On a plot of land that will someday house the new downtown courthouse, Earth Day will be holding court there Saturday.

"We're going to have tons of green groups and organizations and businesses that have booths set up to educate folks about green issues and sustainable issues," said Robby Lee with Austin Green Art.

Several local businesses working to make the earth a better place will be taking part in the event including HEBB Bikes. The company will be showing and selling their latest electric bike that runs on a lithium battery, retailing for around $2,000.

"The idea of an electric bike is to make them more useable, practical so more people will get back on bikes and start using them for everyday purposes," said Vince Thomae with HEBB Bikes.

When it comes to a sustainable lifestyle, TerraBurger on Guadalupe Street wants to be the new name in sustainable fast food.

"We won't serve anything unless it's all natural, and we try to get organic whenever possible," said Robert Colby, TerraBurger general manager.

Even the cups, plates and utensils are biodegradable, since they are made from cornstarch.

Those looking to give back on Earth Day can help the organization I Live Here I Give Here. It helps local nonprofits receive donations.

"It doesn't take a lot of money to make a difference," said Mackenzie Martin, with I Live Here, I Give Here. "Anybody can be a philanthropist."

People can consider growing something on Earth Day, too. Austin Green Art is helping people set up what they call "Resolution Gardens." It's a cedar box the group builds for anyone wanting to grow a garden in their yard.

"We feel like this is a great opportunity to get people to grow food in their yard and educate them on some of these gardening topics," said Lee.

The Earth Day event will take place right across from Republic Square Park Saturday between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.

It's all free and open to the public. For more information, visit the Web site.