A new regional strategy for green economic development in the Portland metropolitan area identifies six action areas to grow green jobs. A working group of the Climate Prosperity Project released what is called the Greenprint strategy Tuesday, June 23, at Greenlight Greater Portland's third annual economic summit.
The Climate Prosperity Project is a partnership of businesses, non-profit organizations and local governments, including Metro. Its Greenprint draft report recommends actions ranging from identifying finance mechanisms for green innovation to developing a pipeline of green talent.
Metro Council President David Bragdon and councilors Rex Burkholder, Carlotta Collette and Kathryn Harrington were among the more than 500 local leaders and business representatives on hand to learn about the need to foster green economic development.
"We have the leadership and the capability in this region to be a national model of innovative, profitable and clean economic development," said Metro Councilor Rex Burkholder. "By focusing resources on green technology and talent, we will maintain livable communities, attract jobs and develop a sustainable economic industry. "
Although the region boasts statistics that point to a leading role nationally, other regions are poised to take over our lead with better coordination, stated Rob Bennett, executive director of the Portland Sustainability Institute. To assist with implementation of the Greenprint strategy, a Climate Prosperity Leadership Council is planned to launch this fall.
Beaverton Mayor Denny Doyle, speaking along with four other local mayors, highlighted the need for a regional focus to support local jobs and the opportunity to send a consistent message about the region. "Partnerships are the key to pulling us through tough times," he stated.
Portland Mayor Sam Adams emphasized the need for the public and private sectors to work collaboratively to attract and retain businesses and Vancouver Mayor Tim Leavitt stated that businesses want political leadership that transcends political boundaries.
The economic summit also focused on successful public-private collaborations, innovative and clean tech business products, and the release of the Greater Portland Prosperity Index.