The climate conversation doesn’t have to feel heavy or out of reach. It starts right here, with us — neighbors learning from neighbors.
Real Talk, Real Neighbors, Real Change
Our first DeCarbon Dialogue was an enthusiastic house — over two dozen neighbors (from four counties!) joined us at the library for Planning a Microforest for DeKalb plus Winter Sowing Seeds, and we left with hearts full and ideas flowing.
What we learned:
Microforests — also called Miyawaki forests — grow 10× faster and 30× denser than traditional forests, improving air and soil quality, capturing carbon, and creating space for pollinators and wildlife.
Even a 10’x10’ sized plot (the smallest room in your house) can host a thriving forest.
Winter sowing native seeds in recycled containers is a super easy way to get started.
We’re now gathering potential microforest sites — parks, schools, church lawns, or backyards. Want to help? Reach out to hello@decarbondekalb.com.
Here’s the slide deck from dialogue #1 - it’s packed with info and resources!
Dialogue #2
Climate Hope: Power of Local Communities
Feeling overwhelmed by the climate headlines? You’re not alone.
This month’s DeCarbon Dialogue invites neighbors, educators, and experts to explore how community-led action can restore both hope and impact, even when national policy is stalled or contradictory.
Climate Hope: Power of Local Communities focuses on the psychologically positive effects of engaging in local adaptation, showing how participation builds resilience, reduces anxiety, and strengthens community connection.
Panelists from the Earth Fest Executive Planning Team — including sustainability specialists and clean-energy and green architecture pros — will share insights on how small, local projects can deliver outsized impact across Northern Illinois.
Discussion Highlights
The mental health benefits of taking a hopeful approach to climate action
Why local communities are faster, nimbler, and more impactful than top-down efforts
How to “weed through the noise” and focus on what really works
Snacks, conversation, and good neighbors
Why It Matters
DeCarbon Dialogues are designed to make climate adaptation approachable, hopeful, and hyper-local. Each monthly session (October–March) builds momentum toward DeKalb County Earth Fest 2026, helping residents turn conversation into action — one project, one neighbor, one spark at a time.
How Partners Can Help
Spread the word — share on your organization’s newsletter or social channels.
Co-host or sponsor refreshments, print materials, or signage.
Invite your networks — civic groups, classes, businesses, and faith communities.
Collaborate on upcoming dialogues or project pilots.
Hope is contagious — and so is action.
About DeCarbon Dialogues
DeCarbon Dialogues is a six-part monthly conversation series running October through March on the second Tuesday of the month at DKPL. Each dialogue spotlights a local solution — from sustainable food and clean energy to community adaptation and resilience — all building momentum toward DeKalb County Earth Fest 2026.
RSVP for the next dialogue on 11/11!
FAQs
What are the DeCarbon Dialogues?
A six-part monthly series of climate conversations hosted by DeCarbon DeKalb. Each dialogue is a bite-sized, neighborly event where we talk about local solutions — from planting microforests to saving on energy at home — that can make a big difference right here in DeKalb County.
Who should attend?
Everyone! Students, families, business owners, elected officials, and climate advocates of all experience levels. Whether you’re brand new to the topic or a seasoned expert, you’ll find something useful and inspiring.
Why are you doing this now?
Because climate change is already shaping our lives — and local action matters. Northern Illinois has a huge opportunity to adapt and thrive, but it starts with neighbors learning, laughing, and working together. The Dialogues keep the momentum going towards our big annual event DeKalb County Earth Fest (April 11, 2026).
What’s the first dialogue about?
The kickoff session (October 14) is Planning a Microforest for DeKalb (plus Winter Sowing Seeds).
Learn how microforests — tiny but mighty native forests — grow 10x faster and 30x denser than traditional forests.
Discover winter sowing, an easy method for growing native plants in recycled containers.
Explore how these practices can cool neighborhoods, capture carbon, and boost biodiversity.
Do I need to know anything about climate science to attend?
Nope. If you can learn, ask a question, or share an idea — you’re ready. We keep things approachable, neighborly, and fun.
Is it really free?
Yes! Thanks to community support and the DeKalb Public Library, all DeCarbon Dialogues are free and open to the public.
How often do these happen?
Once a month, every second Tuesday from October to March. Each month covers a new theme: energy savings, food systems, resilience, and more.
How does this connect to Earth Fest?
DeCarbon Dialogues build community year-round, while Earth Fest is our big annual gathering. Think of the Dialogues as practice runs and pollination for projects that can shine at Earth Fest 2026.
Where can I learn more or get involved?
Email Andy and Kendra at hello@decarbondekalb.com, and follow @DeCarbon_DeKalb for updates.