Incentives for going green range from improved personal health to reduced greenhouse gas emissions to more aesthetically pleasing surroundings to a clearer conscience about respecting the environment, animals and fellow humans. Thanks to figureheads like Al Gore and Leonardo DiCaprio, green awareness is enjoying the limelight more than ever.

So why isn't green action more popular in DC? Washington, DC, is a bright, passionate hub of politics, nonprofits and international networking. Why isn't a city with so many eyes on it more eager to set a precedent for the US - and beyond?

Obstacles
- Lack of awareness (despite Al and Leo's noble efforts).
- Lack of incentive("What reward do I get for being green?")
- Too expensive. ("I can't afford a Hybrid car or solar panels")
- Too much of a hassle ("How can I recycle when I see so few recycling bins?")
- Other priorities ("My Hummer is intricately woven with my self-image." Or: "There's such big money in coal.")

Enter Paint The District Green. This project strives to move DC past such obstacles. To show the nation's capitol what the big deal about going green is anyway. Then to show that, lo and behold, maybe DC green action could be convenient, affordable and appealing for people from all walks of life! It's not just for trendsetters or granolas or the wealthy. Everyone can help "paint" this city green. Good thing, because green action benefits us all.

Through videos and links, PaintTheDistrictGreen.com showcases easy, cheap, rewarding and fun green actions being taken in DC by businesses and individuals. It shows residents, workers and tourists discussing what "green" means to them and what would make them more willing and able to go green.

Find more tips and info and tag along on our PTDG journey on the blog.

Hear creative green ideas and share your own on the Wet Paint page. Maybe in the future we will even put some of your ideas into action!