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Boosting Oregon's Green Economy

Oregon, already a model of sustainability, may get greener if Governor Kulongoski gets his way. He's pushing for more eco-friendly jobs, ranging from renewable energy and electric vehicles, to green construction. While those goals are established, other parts of the state deal with urban growth. In Seattle, the urban shift may create more livable communities.

The (Political) Climate is a-Changin'

Here's something you don't see every day. The GOP candidate for president hopping on a truck-bed with the two-term Democratic governor of Oregon after a speech in the People's Republic of Portland -- at a wind power plant -- about climate policy. Interesting picture, isn't it? Oh, plus, Bill Clinton and Barack Obama just toured Eastern Oregon talking about energy security.

Welcome to Sightline Daily!

Today, Tidepool and the Daily Score moved in together! Our new daily news website is a snapshot of the most important sustainability headlines affecting Cascadia, combined with expert insight that helps connect the dots and points to solutions. Our goal is to help innovative thinkers--like you--understand and solve the environmental, social, and economic challenges facing the Northwest.

Seattle Popping at the Seams

Even with the economy in a tail-spin, cities will continue to see population growth. The Seattle P-I reports on what the city is doing to address growth issues. In Montana, transit planners want to accommodate more riders in urban areas. California sees a green economy as a solution to creating more jobs. And don't forget to support Sightline's continuous work on sustainable issues.

Western States Band Together to Reduce Emissions

The Western Climate Initiative (WCI) unveiled its cap-and-trade program yesterday, a big step forward in addressing global-warming pollution. This is the largest regional cap-and-trade program in North America, representing nearly three-quarters of Canada's economy and a fifth of the American economy, and bringing together a diverse group of players. The recommendations received coverage in Cascadia's regional, as well as national major media outlets.

Cascadia Feels Nation's Economic Trembles

While the US is focused on a federal financial bailout, local economies are getting worried. In Puget Sound, community organizations fear the impact the nation's economic crisis will have on local projects. In Bend, Oregon, the "hard times" are catching up too. The Oregonian reports that "Oregon has felt the sting of rising energy and food prices, job losses and real estate foreclosures."

Voter Issues: Read All About It

Thank goodness it's Friday. Newspapers won't let you off the hook though. As elections draw near, voters are faced with plenty of community-affecting decisions. From transit propositions, to same-sex marriage, city park management and traffic congestion initiatives. Not to forget the presidential election. The best Cascadians can do is learn about the issues so that voting day won't be so intimidating.

Oregon's Health Care Powerball

Oregon was once the nation's leader in innovative health care policy. Gov. John Kitzhaber, a charismatic cowboy and real-life ER doctor, expanded the Oregon Health Plan to ensure struggling folks could access care they need. Now Oregonians are competing against each other in a health-care lottery. The New York Times reports from Bend, a boomtown with a growing economic divide.

BC's Smart Growth Slips; Green Patriotism

Could Vancouver, BC's smart-growth leadership be slipping? That's what a new Sightline analysis suggests. Also, California's teen birthrate increases for the first time in 15 years, and green may be "the new patriotism." Plus, if you like sorting your news by topic or region, try out Sightline Daily's varied rss feeds.

Seattle: Fabulous Prizes for Driving Less

You've heard the rumblings from back East about a "gas tax holiday." Seattle is going 180 and seizing the media opportunity to motivate citizens to drive less. Yesterday, the mayor announced the "Give Your Car the Summer Off" program. The city and local businesses will offer cash and prizes to folks who park their cars and take public transit.

California's Last Good Salmon Run

With bad news hailing down regularly about Pacific Northwest salmon, a bit of hope comes from Butte Creek in the Sacramento River System, where spring run chinook are doing OK. Not all bodies of water share successes. Lake Whatcom is a favorite rec spot in Bellingham, but do people realize they swim in their drinking water?

Washington Bets on the Farm

I dread that stretch of I-5 from Seattle to Portland. You know what I'm talking about - radiating from Renton down to Olympia - shopping malls, outlet stores, sprawl, sprawl, and more sprawl. Washington state is offering funds to save local farmland from development in Pierce County. And it's making a difference. See today's Tacoma News Tribune for the scoop.

Riding the Wind Energy Wave

Danish Vestas Wind Systems in Portland is riding rapid industry expansion propelled by ballooning costs of oil and mandates for cleaner alternatives. The company announced 200 new jobs in Corvallis and an $817 million turbine deal to a Midwest utility. Houston, however, won the company's investment in a state-of-the-art solar research center. Why? Not enough engineering grads from Oregon universities.

It's Spring - Already?

Noticed some changes in your yard? My rhododendron bush was blooming in February. If you think that seems odd, you're right. The major papers report that spring is arriving earlier - and it's most obvious in the Pacific Northwest. ... Please welcome freelance editor Christina Claassen to Sightline Daily's team.

Green Building Gets Strict

San Francisco paves the way, as Mayor Gavin Newsom enacted the strictest green building codes in the US. The code will encourage energy and water conservation, and reduce greenhouse gases. In Seattle, nonprofits are seeing green in their structures too, especially as state funding expects more energy efficiency. The housing hinterlands: Eugene helps the homeless, and Americans leave the suburbs.

Preventative Medicine

Today, opportunities lost and opportunities seized to take care of ourselves, our economy, and our environment before it's too late for full recovery. Americans are cutting back on doctor visits. Chipping away at spotted owl territory; will the birds be lost for good? Poverty in the US is on the rise, stepping backward from progress made in the 1990s. Finally, positive lessons from gas prices: we can take charge of our energy economy.

Food for Thought

On Friday, the New York Times published one of the most startling articles I've read of late. Haitians are eating mud mixed with sugar to stop the gnawing in their stomachs. Here, grocery prices are rising dramatically. Meanwhile, Seattle floats a local food plan that could help the city's poor, the area's organic farmer, and the health-conscious shopper.

British Columbians Get a Life. Americans Don't.

British Columbians live longer than most people in the world, according to new numbers. Meanwhile, a big UW study finds that life expectancy for many Americans is declining. The trend is especially prevalent in rural areas -- including some parts of Washington -- and among poor women. One of the leading causes of health problems -- no surprise -- is obesity.

Seattle Thinks Dense

More than 40 cities in the Seattle area signed on to a plan that emphasizes growth in urban cores, and discourages sprawling exurbs, the Seattle Times reports. Meanwhile, Everett is trying to ban big, bad subdivisions on the city's outskirts. One super-sized development the city is battling would include 6,000 houses and a golf course. Yikes!

Timber Talk: Slush Funds and a Dying Industry

A U.S.-imposed tariff on Canada's timber has turned into a billion dollar slush fund. Sen. Maria Cantwell wants to follow the money. While talking timber, it seems the study of forestry is an endangered species -- WSU is cutting its program. Recycled products are the way to go now, as Hoquiam buys 100 percent recycled, local paper for city offices.

Weighing the Carbon Calculations

Carbon footprint calculators are nifty tools that many organizations offer, but the numbers don't always add up, as the Seattle P-I explores. Clark County residents do their own number crunching, reducing to four-day workweeks. While the economy is a bit rocky regarding housing aid and unemployment, the wind is picking up for alternative energy and green building.

It's in the Bag

Today, Seattle decides to cut down on grocery bag use with a 20 cent fee, halting the debate on "paper or plastic." Meanwhile, Oregon takes a look at its recycling system. And across the West, communities are talking about the Western Climate Initiative's proposal for a regional cap and trade system to cut carbon emissions.

Taking Work Home

Transportation and economy go hand in hand these days. That's why more people are telecommuting, buying electric cars, and riding their bikes. In Portland, teens are getting free bus passes, and the Seattle P-I urges for a revamped transit system. Economically, more people are growing food nationwide, low-wage earners struggle to move up, and health care systems get sorted out.

Dirty Energy; Clean Energy

Today we see the devastation caused by dirty energy sources and the benefits of clean energy. A study shows cancer risk for Seattle residents in heavy air pollution zones. Meanwhile, Oregon looks to make solar power affordable to the masses and turn freeway medians into solar collectors. And businesses in BC and OR see the bright side of a transition away from fossil fuels. Finally for Friday, do we live in a Nanny Nation?

Putting Pressure on the EPA

Twelve states, including Oregon, Washington, and California, are taking charge in the efforts against climate change by requesting that the EPA regulates emissions from oil refineries. "Washington state is doing its part to address climate change," said Washington Governor Gregoire, but the states find the lack of federal concern unacceptable. Meanwhile, developers race to submit renewable energy projects before federal tax credits expire.

Oregon's Energy Future

Renewable energy is the wave the future, but Oregon Governor Kulongoski is rethinking what can be done in the meantime to meet Oregon's energy demands. Also, today's news is full of stories about smart solutions in California -- from less driving and sprawl to pay-as-you-drive insurance; let's take some cues from the sunny, southern side of Cascadia.

It's About Time: Bush Administration Admits Climate Change Human-Caused

After four years, the White House has finally released a report on climate change that says it is a human-induced problem. "For the first time, [the administration] has had to admit that global warming is already having clear impacts in the United States," said Philip Clapp of the Pew Environment Group. It's about time because the nation's poor are suffering.

Prairie and Prayer

The Register-Guard offers a pair of interesting features: one on an effort to restore Oregon prairie and another on the dichotomy of Oregon's 4th District, where everyone loves trees, but "half love them vertical; the other half love them horizontal." Plus: How rising gas prices are affecting American churches.

Reining in Energy Prices

Everybody is hungry for real energy solutions, not band-aids. Arnold Schwarzenegger put it well: "drilling is not the answer; technological innovations and expanded choices for consumers will lead the way to reduced fuel costs." Today, we want to hear from you. Please tell us what you think about Sightline Daily by taking our quick survey.

Climate Change and the Wild

As northwesterners plan summer pilgrimages to our wildlands, the folks who manage them grapple with how to address climate change's wide-ranging impacts. Crosscut finishes its provocative transit series. And just in: Supreme Court slashes damages for Valdez victims; paves the way for the long-awaited W.R. Grace trial on abestos poisoning.

Two Solutions in One

Today, the WSJ examines a solution dear to Sightline's heart: pay-as-you-drive car insurance, which could cut driving by 8 percent, with $51.5 billion in social benefits. (We call that a twofer.) Regional papers are analyzing--and decrying--yesterday's Exxon Valdez decision. And help us improve Sightline Daily by taking our survey! http://tinyurl.com/44shu9

Home Sweet Micro-Home

A few "slow news" gems: The challenges faced by the biofuels industry, and new solutions on the horizon. Canada plans a formal apology for the abuses of the native residential school system, even as a new kind of native school takes off in Oregon. And--my favorite--a report on the micro-house, aka "rightsizing."

At an Energy Crossroads

Whether the idea is drilling for crude in ANWR or California or building wind farms in Eastern Washington, people and politicians are seeking answers to big energy questions. With rising gas prices impacting not only our choice of transportation but also the availability of food and other necessities, the question remains: will we stick to oil or turn to new energy solutions?

40 Newspapers in 4 Minutes

The wolves are back. First, confirmed howling recorded in Washington and now howls heard in Oregon. But not everyone is pleased. Just ask local ranchers. Also today: Canadian libraries make a comeback in a tough economy. But what's the same economy doing to women in the workplace? And what happens to Oregon's economy when social security numbers are required for workers? It's not pretty. Finally, one prodigal salmon spurs a BC celebration.

The Eco in Economics

Today, David Suzuki asks us to put the "eco" back in "economics," and that's just what communities around Cascadia are doing. Solar energy could bring a green job boom to Oregon. Meanwhile, California starts giving low-interest loans to help families make energy-saving investments and one Montana community thinks it has what it takes to balance jobs, forests, and local economies.

Sustainable Transit Solutions

Northwest cities are exploring sustainable and affordable public transportation. For the past 40 years, bus systems have been the lifeline to transit. Crosscut gives a more serious look at why cities should switch to a stronger rail system. Other solutions to getting around town: a four-day workweek, as Montana tribes are trying, or slowing down the speed.

Ghost 'Burbs

We've heard a lot about the casualties of the sub-prime mortgage crisis. Here's another one: suburbia. The Guardian reports from an exurb of Sacramento, Calif., where cul de sacs are emptying and houses are shuttered. The Atlantic Monthly ran a great piece (The Next Slum?) on this in their March issue -- and also spotlighted Elk Grove.

Energy That Won't Get You Dirty

Clean, secure energy is the talk of the town today as British Columbia joins Alaska, Oregon, Washington, and California in a new Pacific Coast Collaborative agreement to tackle sustainability questions; international investment in green energy is up 60% in one year; and Oregon signs on to wind energy. Meanwhile, car and truck sales hit a ten year low, and Washington's organic acreage expands.

How to Power Down

Can we radically cut energy use--and costs? Juneau's conservation efforts, which quickly reduced power consumption by 30 percent, inspire, as does this story about a trend called "small wind," and--oh yeah--Sightline's new climate handbook. Oregonians are being listened to about health-care woes.

The Long and Winding Road to the Store

Today's Seattle P-I offers an eye-opening article on a key to healthy, walkable neighborhoods -- the grocery store. And the number of grocers differs wildly depending on where you live in the city. In South Seattle -- the locus of many of the city’s low-income neighborhoods -- good luck finding a well-stocked store within a 30-minute bus ride.

What Northwest News is Important to You?

One goal of Sightline Daily is growing a community of readers who not only use - but choose - the Northwest news that matters. Did you read a good sustainability story in your local paper? How are folks solving our region's problems where you live? Submit the story on our site. We'll credit you with helping edit the day's edition.

Fuel, Food, and the Flextime Answer

Stories about food and fuel prices, and some unexpected effects of the economic slowdown top today's news. In cheerier news, we're getting creative about cutting fuel costs (flextime!), while the Sound's treasure-filled low tides provide reason to play hooky from work (if you can take the rain).

Striving for Health Care Equality

Oregon's health care may be improving, but The Oregonian reports that the distribution of services is not equal. African Americans are 34 percent more likely to be hospitalized for preventable health issues. The good news: An Oregon health coalition and the Puget Sound Health Alliance are two of 14 in the nation to receive $1 million health care grants.

Will We Ever Clean Up Hanford?

Seattle P-I reporter Lisa Stiffler authors an excellent two-part report on the polluted quagmire that's Hanford. This investigation appears on the heels of a fiery op-ed co-signed by Wash. Gov. Christine Gregoire and U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell in the Washington Post. More to come on this, I'd bet ...

Riding Clean: Public Transit Use is Quickly Growing

With fuel and airline prices soaring, more and more travelers are looking into public transit. According to the American Public Transportation Association, rail and bus use is up. Seattle commuter rail ridership bumped up 27.9 percent in the first quarter of 2008. Canada is making climate changes too, as the corporate world gears up for a green future.

Can Seattle Schools Reverse Re-segregation?

Racial balance is long gone in Seattle's schools. But beyond parents' conflicting hopes for diversity and for close-by schools, the Supreme Court ruled last year that Seattle could no longer use race to determine school assignments. The challenge now is to foster racial and economic diversity without mandating it. Also today: The national climate policy discussion heats up.

The Triple Bottom Line

What is the triple bottom line? The notion that you can make money on a development project by integrating economics with social equality and environmental concerns. That is exactly what planners in Vancouver, WA, aim for with a new mixed-use, LEED Platinum neighborhood project. And they are looking to Victoria, BC's state-of-the art waterfront development, hailed as one of the most environmentally and socially advanced projects of its kind.

West Leading on Climate

The Western Climate Initiative, an unprecedented agreement between seven states and four provinces, has released their draft recommendations for a pollution-cutting cap-and-trade system that would become the largest such arrangement in North America. Also, survey says: commuters want more transit options, and local agencies agree as they recommend light rail and bike lanes for the Columbia River Crossing.

Climate Change's First Frontier

We think of Alaska as the last frontier, but it may be the first for climate change. Rapid glacial ice melt, threatened wildlife, and beetle-ravaged forests are taking their toll on this pristine landscape. "What's happening with climate change - it's not speculation," says Colleen Swan, a tribal administrator of Kivalina, a 399-person Inupiat community on the Chukchi Sea. "It's our reality."

More Than Just the Money

What if we started valuing local economies for more than just the money? That's exactly what a new study explores: the value of Puget Sound's natural resources. Ecosystems have wide-ranging impacts, from human health, to resource availability. BC is valuing its ecosystem too, as the Nature Conservancy of Canada just bought more than 550 square-miles of biodiverse land.

Protecting the Pacific

Regional agreements top the news today. California, Oregon, and Washington governors have released a plan to protect the Pacific Ocean from pollution. Meanwhile, states and provinces are still talking about the Western Climate Initiative and the best way to craft a cap-and-trade system. And whether it be wind, electric cars, or other sources, green jobs are popping up throughout Cascadia.

Rewiring Car Culture Habits

Creative thinking about cars -- or moving beyond the burdens of the car culture as we know it -- is sweeping the Northwest. Seattle closes city streets to cars on Sundays. San Francisco is looking for incentives for commuters to ditch their cars. And there's a big effort afoot to rethink long-unquestioned transportation building habits in Oregon.

Save Bucks, Take the Bus

Here's one more reason to use transit: more than $8,000 of annual savings, not to mention the break it'll give the atmosphere. Give the planet breathing room and forego that new super-useful, time-saving gizmo. The creation of consumer goods is tough on earth's climate. Alternative energy is getting a green bill, with promising reports for Oregon and the nation.

Cleaning the Puget Sound

Today, communities throughout the region discuss decisions to make Cascadia a better place to live. Crosscut features a story on what it will take to clean up Washington's Puget Sound. In BC, the Climate Action Team is encouraging the province to step up the carbon tax. In California, groups are also talking about climate change and the importance of land use measures.

The Future of Fuel

In the news today, "dirty" fuel extracted from Canada's oil sands takes hit as US mayors announce their distaste for the stuff. Across the U.S., airports will be affected by flight cuts stemming from high fuel costs. A new outpost on California's hydrogen highway. And, BC's carbon tax shift kicks in tomorrow.

The Booming New Economy

A new economy is booming in Cascadia as companies within the region and without invest in renewable energy projects. In Oregon, this means a burst of hot jobs; in the bay area, PG&E is investing in enough solar to power 239,000 homes; and venture capitalists say the future is now for clean tech. But nationally the senate fails to continue renewable energy tax credits.

Greener Cities Every Day

Cities across Cascadia keep working toward a sustainable future. Portland, already considered a green haven, launched its "Grey to Green" program this summer. The goal is to plant more than 80,000 trees in the city to offset carbon dioxide emissions. California wants a greener future too, with the intention of creating a renewable energy economy that could provide new jobs.

Making Space for Car-Sharing

Car-sharing gets a boost in Seattle today as the city adds more dedicated parking spaces and lets police crack down on violators. Meanwhile, Oregon Governor Kulongoski has called for stronger affirmative action within state agencies. Also, could the tiny pika be the next polar bear in the fight against global warming?

It's All About the Census

Census data is rolling in, with mixed results. The good news: Oregon's uninsured rates are leveling off, Seattle's household size is lowest in the region, and U.S. poverty levels are decreasing. The bad news: Rural Oregonians have a greater income gap than their urban counterparts, California's median income is slipping, and statistics may not reflect the economy's latest dive.

Farewell To Thy Auto

Is it hard for you to envision a nation without cars? With the "genie out of the bottle," as columnist Neil Peirce tags it, the US may finally be on a path toward a car-reduced future. Before we see cars parked at the curb, certain infrastructure, such as bike lanes, need to be improved, as the Washington Post reports.

Palin's Alaska; Costly Health Care

The Seattle Times says the costs for those with health insurance are going up. But in Montana, at least more workers are getting insurance, even if the number of "underinsured" is also on the rise. And the New York Times looks at the challenges Palin faced governing Alaska while Crosscut takes a look at previous Northwesterners on the presidential ticket.

This Just In: Bush Signs Wild Sky

The Everett Herald breaks the news: Wild Sky Wilderness is a go! President Bush signed the bill into law this morning. It's the first new tract of wilderness -- 106,000 acres of it -- for Washington state in 24 years. Meanwhile, another wilderness plan is moving forward in Southern Oregon. Read about it in the Medford Mail-Tribune.

Salmon Fishing a Relic of the Past?

Today, the New York Times visits Southern Oregon's coast to find out how salmon fisherman are going to make it through the summer. Some are giving up on their craft altogether and turning to other means of making a living. In Cascadia's more remote fishing and logging towns, these are really hard times.

Chia Pet Politics: Obama's Popularity, and Crowds, Keep On Growing

Barack Obama closes his Oregon campaign with a record crowd in Portland. The Oregonian reports that his Sunday speech drew in 72,000 people. In environmental news, Olympia's marina gets kudos as one of the most environmentally-friendly in the nation. That's no clean bill for oceans though, as hundreds of thousands of pieces of trash float in the Pacific.

Sustainable Pocketbook Change

We'd all like to see governments and corporations making sustainable decisions. In the meantime we can make an impact as individual consumers, either by choosing not to buy more stuff, or by supporting sustainable businesses. Eventually, all that spare change should add up to something big, like improved transit, more green buildings or a ban on plastic.

It's Mines, All Mines for the NW

The headlines, mostly straight-up business stories, appear almost daily. The mining industry is booming to the tune of eight figures in Cascadia. New mines - really big ones – are proposed for rural BC and Alaska. Today, the New York Times visits one resort town in Idaho, where folks are suddenly betting on silver, not tourism, to shuttle them though a recession.

The Policies Behind Going Green

Whether adopting green building standards, putting a price tag on pollution, or taking the plunge into green living, big picture policies for going green are on the minds of many. California leads the way in adopting more efficient building codes while regional leaders forge ahead to cut global warming pollution. While they're thinking globally, an Idaho family discovers what happens when they act locally.

BC Leaders Ponder: What is a Civil Society?

Saturday's Vancouver Sun is a treasure trove for Cascadian doers and thinkers. It's a special edition of the paper guest-edited by seven of BC's most innovative leaders. Each considers the question, "What makes a civil society?" This is third time the Sun has handed over the editorial reins. Scientist David Suzuki guest-edited the first of this series last spring.

Compassion With a Side of Green

Can compassion translate to action? The Dalai Lama's Seattle visit provided a forum for this question, while the Green Festival shone a light on the many meanings of "green." Also: The local food economy takes a wild ride.

Portland: Greenest of Them All?

"Mirror, mirror, on the wall. Who's the greenest of them all?" Many Portlanders would expect to see a reflection of their fair city. Not so, says the Willamette Week. Stumptown may be known as the sustainability hottee, but other cities are passing her up. In related news, the Oregonian reports that suburban Clackamas County is getting serious about climate action.

Cascadia Underfoot

Today we see how Cascadian neighborhoods measure up against the rest of the nation, and San Francisco takes the cake. Californians are rethinking offshore drilling and nuclear power. Meanwhile, the Pope warns us not to squander our natural resources, and Al Gore asks the next president to aim for the moon. Also, are better schools really the answer to solving income gaps?

Curb Sprawl, Fix the Climate

California's new bill to curb sprawl and fight global warming has gathered a lot of attention in the Northwest, but now it's hit the national stage. Also, a new study says you can grow more and save water, all while turning a bigger profit. Meanwhile, vice presidential nominee Joe Biden makes a stop in Montana to talk about the economy and tribal justice.

A Colder Global Warming

Noticed a Cascadia cold-spell this summer? Does it mean we're getting a global warming "break," or is it one of the many signs of a changing environment? The Tyee tells us why we should still be concerned about summer temps. In other news--it's Sightline's Fall Fund Drive. Please support the news and analysis that you and Cascadia rely upon.

Light Rail as Congestion Relief?

A new study looks at a complicated question, whether expanding Seattle's light rail will ease traffic. Also, the number of Oregon's homeless students may be on the rise; Gregoire looks to the four-day work week; and amid the political news, don't miss this provocative take on what politicos should remember about blue-collar America. Finally, it's our fall fund drive! Please support our solutions-oriented research.

Bay Area Mayors Push for 'New Economy'

I promise I don't play favorites with California, it just seems the state has been in a collaborative mood lately. Three Bay-Area mayors have joined together to tackle sustainability goals in their region. Washington puts its money where its mouth is by encouraging hybrids. And at Sightline, our Fall Fund Drive is taking place, so please make a donation toward climate solutions.

The Economy of Sustainability

While migrant farmers labor across Cascadia, KUOW reports that funding in Washington helps immigrants run their own farms. In BC life isn't as sunny for migrant workers who were sent back to Mexico for trying to unionize. Overall, housing and the economy are tough issues of the day. In other news - please support our Fall Fund Drive. Sightline depends on your generosity to provide resources and inspire change.

States Right on Climate; the New Seasons Market Effect

As northwesterners feel the pinch, a study looks at one way to hang onto home values--have an upscale shop nearby. A historic week for regional climate action continues, with editorials lauding WCI's draft plan, and noting that its eastern counterpart today moves from plan to auction. In BC, Campbell's new carbon tax rebate may be a "slippery green slope."

Exile on Suburban Main St.

Vancouver is the "worst city in Canada for housing affordability," according to a new report by the Royal Bank. The only realistic option for the average family is to buy in the 'burbs. The Toronto Globe and Mail quotes one frustrated renter: "You'd have to be an idiot to buy right now."

Your NW News Breakfast: How Do You Like it Cooked?

Over-easy or sunny side up? Sightline Daily now offers a slew of RSS feeds on topics important to NW sustainability. By the way, we're still clocking in at 5 a.m., drinking lots of coffee and hand-picking the news for you. Feeds are just another way to slice and dice the news you need to do your work.

The Pacific's Silent Assassin

An intense acidification of the Pacific Ocean resulting from climate change may damage Northwest ecosystems as well as local economies dependent on fisheries. "From an acidification standpoint, the ocean is on fire," said Rep. Jay Inslee, "We need to respond as if it is on fire." The good news: increasing bipartisan support for climate solutions in the region.

"Sincere City" Talks about a Tough Subject

The New York Times chronicles Portland's efforts to get residents talking to each other about the impact of gentrification: "One person's frontier, it turns out, is often another's front porch." Also, guess which US cities get best marks for low climate pollution? (Hint: It's not Seattle, Boise, or Portland, though they're high.)

Green-Collar Job Rush: Real or Hype?

Welding wind turbines, retrofitting buildings, installing solar panels -- many believe that skilled green employment is the key to a strong domestic workforce. In the most-often-cited estimate, there are 8.5 million jobs in renewable energy or energy efficient industries in the U.S. today. Optimists see expansion and enormous opportunity for the economy and the environment. Skeptics don't see a silver bullet.

Win for Washington State Kids

Washington's toy-safety bill "wobbled across the finish line" yesterday, as Gregoire signed the bill and hailed it as a win for children's health and safety. Today's headlines also include bad news for Northwest pickle growers and fish farmers and some help for Oregonians hoping to understand the delegate system.

B.C. Climate Smackdown: Premier Gordo vs. King Coal

What a difference a carbon tax shift makes. The B.C. Liberals are longtime buddies of the province's corporate interests. Now, big business is thwarting the government's climate policy with a really big polluter -- coal power. Just how dirty is coal? See Wednesday's Oregonian. The paper reported that one coal plant emits most of the pollution blanketing the Columbia Gorge.

Oregon and Climate Change

The impacts of climate change are likely to be more pronounced than many northwesterners expect, according to a new report for Oregon's governor. But that doesn't mean the future is all doom and gloom. Find out why in a story in today's Oregonian.

Dams if You Do, Dams if You Don't

Four tribes broke rank with conservationists yesterday and cut a deal with the federal government to end their longstanding opposition to dams on the Snake and Columbia rivers. In return, the Yakama, Colville, Umatilla and Warm Springs tribes will receive $900 million for restoring salmon habitat. The tribes see this as a solution to the enduring legal wars over salmon.

Where Have All the Salmon Gone?

Every spring, the government mulls it over: to fish or not to fish? This year, don't bother digging your rod and reel out of the closet. There's no salmon fishing off the California and Oregon coasts. And if you like a little wild king on your dinner plate, be prepared to pay for it.

Riding the Wind

Energy alternatives are the talk of the nation, but in Cascadia it's a lot more than just talk. Wind power developers are eyeing Oregon, while a Washington company looks for new ways to harness the sun. Meanwhile, the Bush administration moves to make parts of the Endangered Species Act a thing of the past.

Focusing on Neighborhoods

Neighborhoods are in the news, both for plans to make them more livable and for threats such as air pollution and traffic congestion. For example, despite its reputation as a green city, Seattle faces penalties for exceeding smog rules. And neighborhood plans across the nation include streetcars.

Putting a Stop to Sprawl

In today's news, California takes another leap forward as it works to factor sprawled development into its landmark goal of reducing carbon emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. Not to be outdone, Seattle announces plans to double its energy savings. Also, a huge victory is made for guest workers in BC as they are allowed to unionize for the first time.

Creating Bikeable Communities

Not only are more people riding their bikes, but they are also seeking houses that are near safe bike routes, amenities and transit. In Portland, house hunters are adding that to their list of must-haves for a new home. Seattle is trying to get more people to commute by bike, with a 200 bike giveaway, and 100 free bike tune-ups.

Cascadia's Green Leadership

Mayors across Cascadia demonstrate green leadership. Are they truly sustainable visionaries, or is there a catch to their policies? Crosscut reprints an article about Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels and his "green" background. In other parts of the region: Bay-area drivers get out of their cars, renewable energy jobs soar in Oregon, and whales are the "canaries in the (climate) coal mine."

A Tribe Unrecognized

In the late hours of the Clinton administration, the Duwamish tribe was officially recognized. But shortly after the Bush Whitehouse took office, they were de-listed. Eight years later, the Duwamish are again fighting to be recognized. Meanwhile, a writer for the Vancouver Sun takes a look at Seattle's "entrepreneurial zeal" for transportation options, and Washington and Oregon’s Amtrak ridership hits an all time high.

Disaster Aid for the Salmon Industry

Amid a bundle of federal bailouts, money is coming to the Northwest. Although it's $70 million less than Congress approved, $100 million is coming to fishermen in the collapsing salmon industry. But sunny California provides a ray of hope in tough times: a study says reducing greenhouse gas emissions could boost their economy by $27 billion. Also, love Sightline Daily? Help us out in our fall fund drive.

Cascadia's Changing Leaves

It's fall, and in Cascadia, cities and organizations are busy working on sustainable issues. In Seattle, light rail may be riding on Obama voters. Oregon tax activists want to pay fair. Canadians weigh in on flex time. And the Washington Post talks about sharing the fish catch. Meanwhile, Sightline Institute is holding its Fall Fund Drive, so make a donation.

Building Sustainable Communities

Condos sit empty, urban neighborhoods are scattered with 'for sale' and foreclosure signs, and people are aching for a sense of community. In Portland, cohousing is one hot trend that is revitalizing downtown, providing affordable housing and sustainable growth to people. Cities around Cascadia should take note, because living, growing and eating together may be the most healing solution of all.

Planning for Cascadia's Future

While Cascadia is expected to continue growing in the coming decades, one Portland planner says it's time to prepare for the influx. Her cause for alarm: climate refugees -- people who will be fleeing hurricanes, floods and other disaster-prone areas of the country. What the Northwest is really focused on now though are issues surrounding public transit, alternative energy and a tight economy.

White House Eyes I-5

Today, the Columbia River Crossing project is given national priority by the White House, Alaska challenges a federal decision listing the polar bear as an endangered species, and the presidential candidates start showing off their energy policies. Meanwhile, can you speak climate?

Water watch

Water tops today's agenda as policy makers consider ways to protect Puget Sound, keep the Columbia's bounty in the Northwest and cast an eye on development threats to clean water. While a state board calls for tougher controls on stormwater runoff, Washington struggles just to keep up with water-quality monitoring. Finally, the U.S. should look no further than Denmark as its model of energy independence!

Pricing Out the Peppers

In Seattle, a group of consumers participated in an informal survey of grocery prices. They discovered that people pay more depending on where they live in the city. Additional food for thought: the suburbs are unlikely to disappear, driving 55 could become more than just that 70's thing, and Glacier National Park inches closer to losing its namesake.

There's Something Fishy Here

The news today will have you growing gills. After six years, a new deal has been reached in Washington, Idaho, and Montana to help restore sturgeon populations. In BC, one writer has had enough with dwindling salmon populations and says its time we own up to our misdeeds. But in Idaho, it's salmon, salmon everywhere.

20 Minutes with Hillary in Oregon

Portland's Willamette Week scored an exclusive interview with Hillary Clinton during her tour of Oregon last weekend. The presidential candidate talks about Oregon Senator Ron Wyden's health care bill, timber payments, LNG, and, of course, what tattoo she'd like to get.

California Dreaming

Recession got you down? Maybe you're cursing your grocery bill, or the chronic pain at the pump. Good news comes from California. No, not Silicon Valley. It's the East Bay, where a green-collar job rush is helping people beat poverty and revitalize down-and-out neighborhoods. The American Prospect offers a great feature on what happens when a resilient community thinks big.

April 2008 editions

 

Getting Un-stuck in Traffic

Today's papers offer a heady mix of commentary on some ugly T-words: traffic and tolling. One solution gaining ground in major U.S. cities is congestion pricing. In Seattle, where transportation policy is especially, well, stuck, the talk is still about tolling.

Portland Sets the Sustainability Curve

Cascadia is on top again, with Portland ranking first, San Francisco second, and Seattle third in the latest annual sustainable cities report. There's more positive news: South Sounders support urban living, Salem businesses hop on the sustainable bandwagon, and Boise has a whole slew of green projects going. Why not add to all those forward-thinking efforts and donate to Sightline's Fall Fund Drive?

Choppy Waters Ahead

In a decision affecting more than 270 municipalities, the National Marine Fisheries Service has said that the federal flood insurance program, which protects homes and businesses in flood plains, is in violation of the Endangered Species Act. Meanwhile, in Montana, worry is growing over potential pollution in a drinking aquifer. And in Oregon, a new study suggests wave energy could impact ocean species.

Cascadia Goes Locavore

It's all about the local news this past weekend. Transit between Everett and Seattle is increasing. Everett is planning better bike options. Berkeley may get a solar tax district. San Francisco pushes for a "locavolt" society. And backyard gardens help stock food pantries. Finally--consider making a donation to our Fall Fund Drive. As a nonprofit, Sightline depends on your generosity to provide resources and inspire change.

Not Just a Roof Over Our Heads

Stories about Wall Street abound, but the slow economy is having effects in the Northwest too; at OPB, Tom Banse has a new series on who's getting the squeeze. Also, as Portland gets ready to pass grants to vegetate rooftops, take a look at high-rise farms. So, is it time to kill the lawn? And don't forget, Sightline's Fall Fund Drive is underway!

Who Saved the Electric Car?

Need a fix for the economic blues? Oregon has one potential solution: electric cars and green jobs -- they could provide a boost the slumping economy needs: "I don't want to be catching up with other states," said Governor Kulongoski, "I want other states to be catching up with us." And did you hear? Sightline Daily is hiring a News Editor.

From Toxins to Obesity in Cascadia<