Who We Are
We were founded in 2009 to systematically bring together business, higher education, nonprofit and municipal leaders to drive a set of next-generation initiatives for urban sustainability in the Portland metro region. The goal — big and game changing ideas that weave together community livability, ecological resiliency, and broad-based prosperity. We believe the results will fuel business and policy innovation, enhance our quality of life, and create cities and neighborhoods that are not just sustainable, but restorative.
What We Do
We turn ideas into actions. Our projects test collaborative models that tie together economic development strategies, development best practices and targeted investments. We strive for high leverage and high value outcomes: enhanced learning networks, multi-sector partnerships, global exchange of best practices and enduring results.
To start, we are focusing on three projects: the EcoDistricts Initiative, the Oregon Sustainability Center, and the Portland Metro Climate Prosperity Project.
Why Now?
The complex issues of climate change, resource constraints, globalization of markets and rapid urbanization are affecting municipalities across the globe. The Portland region "gets" sustainability, but despite some excellent policies and pragmatic investments, our efforts have been largely isolated and left significant goals unmet. To match the pace of change, we must accelerate and align our efforts.
What's New?
July 7, 2010: The New York Times covers the Oregon Sustainability Center and EcoDistricts. Read the article.
June 22, 2010: PoSI and the Climate Prosperity Working Group release a Greenprint for the metro region.
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