In the heart of Alabama’s fastest-growing city, a small but determined nonprofit is making a big impact. The Huntsville Environmental Coalition (HEC) is dedicated to shaping Huntsville into a model for sustainable urban development. By bringing together businesses, individuals, and local organizations, HEC is working to ensure the city’s rapid growth doesn’t come at the expense of its environment.
“Our mission is simple but ambitious,” says Emily Canfield, a board member for HEC. “We want Huntsville to be known as a city that invests in sustainable practices.”
HEC’s vision is a future where Huntsville embraces public transit, prioritizes walkable neighborhoods, integrates green infrastructure, and champions nature-positive policies and is building it through hands-on projects and community initiatives.
Piloting Change at the Table
HEC’s most exciting initiatives is the EAT Program—Earth At the Table, a local certification system for sustainable dining. Inspired by the Alabama Environmental Council's statewide initiative, HEC decided to pilot and expand it to Huntsville.
EAT celebrates restaurants, cafes, breweries, and other food establishments that commit to greener practices. Businesses earn certification by reducing single-use plastics, cutting down food waste, sourcing from local farms, and offering more plant-based options.
Depending on their score, establishments are recognized at Asteroid, Moon, Planet, Star, or Galaxy levels. This system makes it easy for diners to support eco-friendly businesses, while giving restaurants recognition for their sustainability efforts.
Local Leaders on the Menu
Hippea Camper and the Orion Amphitheater have each achieved Galaxy Level status while Vujee Vegan represents Planet Level recognition.
Why It Matters for Huntsville
As Huntsville grows it faces the challenge of balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility. HEC President Ankur Shah explains, “We see it as a starting point for bigger conversations about sustainability—how we move, how we build, and how we live together in this city.”
Get Involved
By supporting EAT-certified establishments or volunteering with HEC, anyone can contribute to a more sustainable Huntsville.
HEC hosts Green Drinks on the last Wednesday of each month featuring a guest speaker and offering a space to share ideas. Meetings: https://www.meetup.com/huntsville-green-drinks-green-thinks/ .
Follow @hsv_environment