Greening the Region

Local companies are getting involved in greening Ohio by taking part in an upcoming sustainability forum. The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC), an association of local governments, is hosting a Summit on Sustainability and the Environment to bring together local companies, authorities, government and city officials to discuss greening the region. The summit takes place in downtown Columbus, OH on November 13 and 14, 2007.  Participants include Tucker Eskew of the National Environmental Defense Department, Ohio EPA Director Chris Korleski, and Dr. David Robinson, who has been trained by the Al Gore Climate Project.

Sharon Naveh, Department of Public Affairs, MORPC.

How are companies getting involved in “greening the region”?

We encourage all companies to get involved with their local regional planning commissions’ initiatives for sustainability and also to start thinking about sustainability within their own buildings and among their own staff.  Companies can begin by supporting mass transit, greenways trails, biking and walking, and redevelopment of urban areas. 

What are some of your plans for the Summit?

At the Summit, MORPC, together with fellow founding members AEP and EMH&T, will be launching the new Center for Energy and the Environment.  This center will be working to develop plans for Central Ohio, strengthening the bond between public and private sectors, for the common goal of sustainability and a green future.

How do cities benefit from focusing on sustainability? Is there an added “brand value” for them as there is with companies?

The City of Dublin, Ohio, one of MORPC’s member governments, has truly “gone green.” It has been successful with great programs such as a progressive tree preservation ordinance, flexible sidewalks (preventing damage to tree roots), a stream setback ordinance (prohibiting development too close to streams), installation of pervious concrete (which allows rain water to infiltrate the ground below).  As a result, the City of Dublin stands out as a leader in the region, attracting residents and businesses to the area.

ENDS