"It's Your Oregon" Blog
Everyday solutions, news, and musings from every corner of the Beaver state.
Everyday solutions, news, and musings from every corner of the Beaver state.
Environmental issues see gains, losses in the 2009 legislative session
A new chapter in Oregon’s environmental legacy was written during the 2009 session in Salem. Dominated by the economy and budget issues, the legislature took some bold steps for the environment– and called a timeout in others.
Finding service, remembering a friend
OEC staff came together to volunteer our time for a cause we are all passionate about and in memory of our friend Phil, who died recently after a brave battle with cancer.
Attention chemical lobby: that doesn't work in Oregon
Last week Oregon became the fourth state to pass a Deca-BDE ban though its legislature. This is great news if you prefer not having toxic substances in your body, or in your surroundings. Wait till you hear what the chemical lobby was up to.
Now for some good news...
According to a recent Pew report, Oregon represents the nation’s largest and fastest-growing clean energy economy.
Two new laws protect Oregon's kids
Governor Kulongoski has two new laws to sign that will protect children’s health, thanks to support from our Healthy Kids Campaign!
State identifies the most toxic water pollutants in Oregon
That anti-stain coating on your new sofa? Persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic. Ick. Same goes for the musk scented fragrance that guy sitting next to you on the bus is wearing. Double ick.
First 'Vote with Your Fork!' drop-off unites businesses and CSAs
The Oregon Environmental Council partnered with our neighbor across the street, NW Natural, to have Love Farm Organics deliver weekly harvest boxes to NW Natural’s office.
Senate approves Integrated Pest Managment Bill
Means healthier, cost-effective pesticide management techniques for all schools in Oregon - reduces unnecessary exposure to potentially harmful pesticides
Green cleaners that do the job
Doug Akeson, a 22-year veteran of custodial work, told a great story about green cleaners at the recent “Healthy Buildings” conference for Oregon school professionals, sponsored by OEC.
Oregon House passes low-carbon fuel standard
The Oregon House of Representatives today approved a major step forward in protecting Oregon consumers and businesses while reducing Oregon’s global warming impact.
National Train Day is May 9
To celebrate rail travel, “Trainiacs” are holding National Train Day on May 9. Railroads are energy efficient, using less energy to move each passenger than virtually any other mode of travel.
Portland City and Multnomah County Leaders Show Climate Leadership While State Leaders Hesitate
Our state legislators who should be setting a good example seem to be sitting this one out on the sidelines.
Senate Bill 637 is on its way to the Senate floor
The Integrated Pest Management in schools bill, Senate Bill 637, is on its way to the Senate floor. We need your help to make it a reality - take action today!
Big updates from Salem, plus today is National Healthy Schools Day
OEC joins government agencies, health advocates and others to commemorate National Healthy Schools Day. We've also got some great news to report about two bills we've been working on.
Support your healthy diet, support your local economy
Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) is a great way to get local, seasonal produce direct from a local farmer.
OEC Awareness Night at PGE Park tonight
Come join OEC in the spirit of Earth Day for the national pastime this Thursday the 23rd. Buy some peanuts and Cracker Jacks - but get free Living Green tips! See you there!
Studies reinforce need to look at indoor air pollutants
Scientists have uncovered yet another clue towards discovering why autism rates have skyrocketed in the past two decades.
Tackling Oregon's sources of air pollution
Studies from across the world have consistently shown that air pollution harms heart health. Common air pollutants are associated with increased hospitalization and mortality due to cardiovascular disease, especially in people with congestive heart failure, frequent arrhythmias, or both.
Chinese announcement a huge boost for solar companies
Anybody out there still think solar is a pipe dream? Certainly not China, nor the Dow Jones.
OEC leads initiative to build Oregon’s greenest building yet
The project will pursue sustainability concepts in the built environment by meeting the prerequisites of the Cascadia Region Green Building Council’s Living Building Challenge.
