Where Forward-Thinking Policy Meets Community Practice

Tennessee’s natural landscapes—from majestic mountain ridges and lush forests to vital waterways and rich biodiversity—underpin our state’s health, culture, and economy. Protecting these precious natural assets requires both bold statewide policy and hands-on, community-level action.

This November, join Tennessee Environmental Council (TEC) for our annual Virtual Policy & Practice Forum. Over three interactive Wednesday evening sessions, we are bringing together state lawmakers, municipal decision-makers, industry innovators, and grassroots advocates to explore practical, scalable solutions for a cleaner, more resilient Tennessee.

Whether you are a local community leader, environmental advocate, business owner, or concerned citizen, your voice matters. Every session features a dedicated, interactive Q&A and discussion period designed to hear directly from you and connect policy with practice on the ground.

Forum Schedule & Session Details

Session 1: Thriving Habitats

Tennessee’s native flora and fauna are vital to our ecosystems and quality of life. Session 1 explores how policy frameworks and local conservation practices work together to protect our land, trees, and waterways.

🗓️ Date: Wednesday, November 4, 2026

⏰ Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM CST

📍 Location: Online via Zoom: REGISTER HERE

Featured Panelists:

  • Monika G. Pretz – Staff Biologist & Pollinator Program Director, Tennessee Environmental Council
  • Mike Jameson – Urban Forestry Coordinator, Metro Water Services (Nashville)
  • Jaffee Judah – Executive Director, Recycle and Reinvest
  • Jason Sprouls – Community Forestry Program Manager (ISA Certified Arborist & Urban Forest Professional)

Session 2: Circular Economy

Transforming our waste stream into local economic opportunity requires systemic policy changes and accessible community practices. Session 2 focuses on moving Tennessee from a throwaway culture toward a thriving, zero-waste circular economy.

🗓️ Date: Wednesday, November 11, 2026

⏰ Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM CST

📍 Location: Online via Zoom: REGISTER HERE

Featured Panelists:

  • Sen. Page Walley – State Senator (District 26), Member of the Senate Committee on Energy, Agriculture & Natural Resources, and Member of the Recycling Market Development & Diversion Advisory Council
  • Mac Nolen – Solid Waste Director, Williamson County Government
  • Darla Arians – Director of Policy and Programs, Product Stewardship Institute

Session 3: Climate Balance

Achieving climate balance requires both forward-looking policy and practical action across our built environment and energy systems. Session 3 explores market-driven solutions and policy tools for building a clean, low-carbon future for Tennessee.

🗓️ Date: Wednesday, November 18, 2026

⏰ Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM CST

📍 Location: Online via Zoom: REGISTER HERE

Featured Panelists (More tba):

  • Gil Hough – Executive Director, TenneSEIA
  • Dustin Mason – Associate Director of U.S. Market Transformation & Development, U.S. Green Building Council

Why Attend?

  • Be Part of the Conversation: Speak directly with policy leaders and industry experts during our interactive Q&A blocks.
  • Gain Actionable Tools: Learn concrete steps you can take to advocate for change in your own neighborhood, city, or county.
  • Connect Across Tennessee: Join a network of fellow Tennesseans dedicated to creating a healthier environment for all.