Sightline Project

Making Sustainability Legal


Some of the smartest, most innovative solutions for a sustainable Northwest are, at present, simply illegal. Believe it or not green treatments for polluted runoff, backyard cottages, and paid car-sharing are, in many places, against the law.

There are dozens–maybe even hundreds–of similar examples. This Sightline series puts the spotlight on cases where we can make sustainability legal by changing existing regulations and developing pragmatic money-saving proposals. We can single out outdated rules and present smart solutions that align with today’s reality. Clear away this sort of debris, and the Northwest can grow into a region that’s more affordable, fair, and sustainable.

Do you have ideas for this series? Email eric (at) sightline (dot) org.

Project Posts

Your Wheels, on the Bus: Puget Sound Edition

Stroller salvation closer than we knew.

Report: Making Sustainability Legal

16 case studies of moldy, expired laws.

Does “BC” Mean “Bans Clotheslines”?

Time for Canada’s greenest province to recognize the right to dry.

Liar, Liar, Pants on Fire

Credibility of Big Chem’s star witness goes up in smoke.

Toxic Couches: the Infographic

Just how toxic is the 12-second rule?

The Rain-barrel Connection

The regulations, the dreamers, and me.

Freeing Food Carts: Vancouver Update

Vancouver gets it half right.

Seattle On the Cusp of Making Sustainability Legal

A smart reform package and a grumpy article about parking.

Freeing Food Carts: Seattle Follow Up

Additional thoughts on the future of Seattle street food.

Legalize Used Pickle Jars

Is a dishwasher in Missoula the solution to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch?