Can one solution fix two problems?
Imagine creating opportunities for economic growth that not only support our vulnerable planet, but uplift vulnerable populations as well. This year’s 3rd Annual Midwest Regional Sustainability Summit on June 9 at Xavier University’s Cintas Center is looking to bridge that gap by exploring economic opportunities that are both socially and environmentally just.
Green Umbrella is partnering with the City of Cincinnati, The Brueggeman Center for Dialogue at Xavier University, Greater Cincinnati Green Business Council, and Hamilton County Planning + Development to bring this event to the region.
“At this year’s Midwest Regional Sustainability Summit, we’ll explore new and promising areas of environmental sustainability, while taking a deeper look at the issue of equity,” says Kristin Weiss, Executive Director of Green Umbrella. “This event is about engaging in new and thoughtful dialogue, sharing best practices, celebrating work currently being done in sustainability throughout the Midwest, and identifying areas for future collaboration. Each year, we seek to widen the table around the issue of environmental sustainability, and we’ve been encouraged by the huge business and community interest in exploring this year’s theme of equity and sustainability.”
To underscore this theme, the keynote speaker this year is Van Jones. Jones is, among many things, a leader working to build an equitable green economy. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in linking the economy, the environment and social justice, notably through initiatives he has founded such as The Dream Corps, Green for All and Rebuild the Dream. The event will also feature:
- A panel discussion among leaders of our city and peer regions, with Van Jones moderating, on how equity can become more universal in city sustainability work.
- A lunchtime awards ceremony honoring area local small business leaders who have successfully incorporated sustainability into their business practices,
- Ten breakout sessions diving deeper into sustainability topics such as sustainable business supply chains, the digital workforce, waste reduction and the circular economy, transportation, economic development, and the Green Cincinnati Plan.
This event is open to the public. Presenting sponsors are The Brueggeman Center for Dialogue at Xavier University and Fifth Third Bank.
For more information and to register, visit www.midwestsustainabilitysummit.org. Registration includes full day admission, a locally-sourced lunch, and a reception featuring local craft beer from MadTree Brewery at the conclusion of the event.
Green Umbrella