League of Cities Slates Green Meeting
Portland, Ore, will host the National League of Cities' first Green Cities Conference and Expo, April 19-21, 2009.
The conference, which will culminate in an Earth Day celebration, will focus on the unique perspective and resources needed by cities as they "go green."
"In cities across America, environmental issues … are fundamental realities that alter the health, economic viability, and growth of communities," said Cynthia McCollum, NLC president and council member from Madison, Ala. "Local governments are not waiting for federal action; instead they are creating new and innovative programs to address their specific communities. Portland, Ore., is the perfect location for the conference, given its commitment to green building, local food, alternative fuels, renewable energy, and bike friendliness."
A comprehensive showcase of green technology, ideas, and practices will be featured in the expo. Through panels and mobile workshops, municipal leaders and those who work with them will find everything in one place to launch or enhance green initiatives in their local communities, including access to a large and targeted group of experts, vendors, planning activities, tools, and real world examples.
The league serves as a clearinghouse for green city practices, championing an advocacy platform (most recently in support of funding for the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant), gathering research on environmental issues, and sharing the latest information about local, state, and federal requirements.