The Sustainability Corps was launched in 2007 and is thought to be the only program of its type in the world.  It is intended for graduate students from a variety of disciplines who want to spend the summer working in a region acclaimed for its leadership in sustainability initiatives.

BACKGROUND

Our nation is rapidly awakening to the sustainability imperative: the process of meeting the economic, social, and environmental needs of the present without compromising the similar needs of future generations. It is, literally and figuratively, about not eating our "seed corn." Sustainability activites find expression in many ways, ranging from green building services, to recycling, environmental remediation, water treatment, sustainable agricultural, alternate transportation modes, even mutual funds.

The Sustainability Corps was developed by Portland State University in conjunction with community partners to provide national-class talent with the opportunity to work in this important and growing field.

TARGETED MAJORS

This program is available to current graduate students majoring in public policy, environmental science, architecture, economics, systems science, environmental health, the social sciences, geography, urban studies and urban ecology, and other disciplines that pertain to social, economic, or environmental sustainability.

LOCATION OF PLACEMENTS

Placements for the inaugural class are anticipated with leading commercial, public sector, or not-for-profit organizations in Oregon and the Western states.

WORTH CHECKING

First Place: Getting It Done in Portland, Oregon
City of Portland Office of Sustainable Development
Oregon Clusters
Oregon Natural Step Network
Portland State University's Sustainability Group
Community Environmental Services
Food For Thought Cafe
National Wildlife Federation Campus Ecology Program
Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education
Summer Sustainability Series