Across the state, Oregonians worked together in 2014 for the benefit of our environment. Here are a few of the many wins Oregon can celebrate as we reflect on the past year. We congratulate the great work of so many people and organizations that made this work possible. Well done, Oregon and cheers!
Congrats to the many organizations who made these wins happen!
Safer products guideline adoption: Oregon Environmental Council
The People’s Climate March: 350PDX and environmental, social justice, faith and peace organizations across Oregon
Oregon Business Climate Declaration: Climate Solutions and Oregon Environmental Council
City of Eugene’s Climate Ordinance: Our Children’s Trust
Sutton Wilderness Protection: Oregon Natural Desert Association
Save Oregon Pollinator’s Act: Beyond Toxics, Xerces Society, and Oregon League of Conservation Voters
Impact Investing: Oregon Environmental Council
Ashland Plastic Bag Ban: Environment Oregon
Record Salmon runs on Columbia River: Many organizations, tribes, and agencies
Coal Export Denied: Power Past Coal campaign and Governor John Kitzhaber
Columbia River Settlement: Columbia Riverkeeper and Army Corps
Campaign for a Fair Transfer: OPAL and TriMet
Also, special thanks to the following contributors:
Our Children’s Trust – City of Eugene’s recovery ordinance photo
Jim Davis – Sutton Wilderness photo
Beyond Toxics – Bee photo/video
KTVL-TV News 10 – Ashland bag ban
Columbia Riverkeeper – Army Corps announcement video
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