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Portland, OR--Today Congressman David Wu held a sustainable industries roundtable with leaders from both the private and public sector to discuss the opportunities and challenges that sustainable industries face. Oregon companies are increasingly being recognized as national trendsetters in sustainable business practices.
“Defined broadly, sustainability is a balance between environmental protection, economic development, and social equity,” said Congressman David Wu. “Whether your business focuses on creating sustainable products, recycling, providing renewable energy, or designing green buildings, you are at the cutting edge of an emerging industry sector in our region.”
Attendees at the roundtable included renewable energy providers, green design firms, and forestry and agriculture-related businesses. Representatives from the Oregon Economic and Community Development Department, Portland Development Commission, and the Oregon Department of Energy also attended.
The state of Oregon defines sustainability as "using, developing and protecting resources at a rate and in a manner that enables people to meet their current needs and also provides that future generations can meet their own needs. Sustainability requires simultaneously meeting environmental, economic and community needs."
“Every day, these businesses are defining what it means to do things in an Oregon way,” said Congressman Wu. “I hope to see the day when the term "sustainable" applies not just to a small sector of the Oregon economy, but to all of Oregon's companies.”
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