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As the country struggled to recover economically, many people placed hopes on green jobs and renewable energy.
But big oil still has a role to play, even as stimulus money targeted new and alternative energy solutions during 2009. And as companies sought to reduce costs, sustainability became even more mainstream -- and consumers learned to be aware of "green washing."
Here's a look back at some top energy and sustainability stories from the year.
Sustainable Network
Boston, Portland and Philadelphia all have one. And soon, Colorado Springs will join the list of cities with sustainable business networks.
The Pikes Peak Sustainable Business Network launched March 12. It is a program of the Catamount Institute, a nonprofit group whose mission is to teach school children about the benefits of environmentally sound stewardship.
Now, the institute also will be educating area business leaders.
"I'm hoping this group will increase the awareness of the importance of supporting the local community," said Mike Callicrate, owner of Ranch Foods Direct and one of the founding supporters of the business network. "If you support local business, then you support local prosperity. If you support Wal-Mart, then we'll no longer have local businesses. We'll just have global businesses."
And that "think local" emphasis can have serious consequences for sustainable business practices and the global environment, said Eric Cefus, executive director of the institute.
"The average product at the grocery store travels 1,500 miles," he said. "And we don't even think about what that means in terms of expense, in terms of fossil fuel used. If we want asparagus in January, we go and buy asparagus."
Weatherization money
Colorado's share of weatherization stimulus money could mean some jobs for the state.
The federal government will give Colorado more than $128 million for the state's weatherization and energy programs as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
Sens. Mark Udall and Michael Bennet said Colorado will get $79.5 million for the weatherization program and $49.2 million for its energy program.
The money will allow an average investment of up to $6,500 for every house to increase energy efficiency and will be available for families making up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level, or about $44,000 annually.
The program is also...