Economics of Sustainability

Greater Lehigh Valley

A regional effort to educate the business community and encourage sustainable business methods throughout Lehigh Valley and the surrounding area.

A business community that has taken a large, active role in the community’s efforts to encourage green activities.

Los Angeles, CA

A local chamber of commerce that promotes environmental policy as a key to the city's economic viability.

Greater Kansas City

Local businesses that promote environmental strategies as a necessary action for the continued economic success of the community.

Indianapolis, IN

Positive reinforcement for businesses that observe green practices in the Indianapolis community.

Columbia, SC

A chamber of commerce that is actively creating a more sustainable Columbia community by involving local business leaders in the effort.

Chattanooga, TN

A business community dedicated to both the economic and environmental health of Chattanooga.

Bridgeport, CT

A wide-reaching collaboration that has resulted in impressive environmental and financial benefits for the city of Bridgeport.

This report highlights eleven chambers of commerce that when faced with the challenge of ensuring the future strength of their economies, have employed creative new agendas that not only help reverse the effects of environmental degradation but leverage the occasion for valuable economic gain. Click here to download the report.

In the fall of 2009, Partners for Livable Communities (Partners) received a grant from the Energy Foundation to challenge the common misconception that economic growth and environmental sustainability are fundamentally at odds with one another and to showcase innovative programs at the nexus of these agendas.

Read more about the report Partners produced that showcased chambers of commerce from around the country that have crafted green initiatives as part of local economic development efforts.

Read more about the event Partners hosted on Capitol Hill on October 6th, 2009 to explose Congressional offices to the great economic opportunity presented by embracing and promoting green business practices. Business leaders from chambers of commerce in eight small to mid-size cities around the U.S. made the case that green is good for business, that it is a common-sense economic strategy applicable to all industries.

In the fall of 2009, Partners for Livable Communities received a grant from the Energy Foundation to challenge the common misconception that economic growth and environmental sustainability are fundamentally at odds with one another and to showcase innovative programs at the nexus of these agendas.