Down:2:Earth Sustainability Expo Boston

down:2:earth expo
Hynes Convention Center
(900 Boylston)
Friday, April 4, Local Bites
preview party from 5pm to 9pm
Saturday, April 5, 11am–7pm
Sunday, April 6, 11am–5pm
$20 Friday, $10 each Sat / Sun
($8 students and seniors)
[ info / tickets ]

Somehow, the ideas of "green living" and "sustainability" have become more synonymous with snooty, moneyed yuppies than down-to-earth folks. Given the lofty prices at the LEED-certified Macallen building and the high cost of some organic foods (which aren't always necessarily better for the environment), it can start to seem like you need go have green to go green. That notion is slightly, if not completely, subverted by this weekend's "down:2:earth" expo, which at $10 is relatively affordable and gives attendees access to a wide range of earth-friendly exhibitors whose products can help make your life greener and, potentially, cheaper.

From Alteris Renewable alternative energies to Alternative Needs Transportation bike shop to Boston Organics food delivery service to Old Fashioned Milk Paint to Glee Gum, the exhibitors can help you reformat your home, your transportation style, your eating habits, or even your personal style. Events include bike rides, facepainting (presumably for the kids), chef demonstrations, presentations on topics like affordable sustainability or the green economy, and more. The event may not revolutionize your life, but it might make you think about ways you can make your lifestyle more efficient and environmentally friendly. It's worth a look, at least.