Open World Program – delegation “Green solutions for cities and local communities”
Open World delegation from Poland under the theme “Green solutions for cities and local communities” spent their professional visit in Cleveland - the first city in the state of Ohio to commit to powering itself with 100% clean and renewable energy by 2050.
A delegation consisting of social and local government leaders focused on protecting the environment and addressing climate change, attended a meeting at the Mayor's Office of Sustainability & Climate Justice in the City of Cleveland. They had the opportunity to discuss with Sarah O'Keeffe, the Director of Sustainability, and Cathi Lehn, the Senior Manager for Sustainability in Circular Economy. The meeting revolved around the ways Sustainable Cleveland involves citizens in working together to create a thriving and resilient city. They also talked about the importance of developing strategies and plans to achieve Cleveland's climate action and sustainability goals in the future.
The delegates were given a valuable opportunity to visit Shaker Heights, a city located near Cleveland, where they had the privilege to meet with Mayor David E. Weiss and Michael Peters, the Sustainability Coordinator for Shaker Heights. The purpose of this meeting was to discuss the city's sustainable development initiatives and explore strategies for promoting a more environmentally conscious lifestyle among the residents of Shaker Heights.
Polish environmental activists also met with local businesses and organizations which are working to create a better environment for the citizens of Cleveland and surrounding areas, inspire environmental stewardship, and promote energy efficiency, circular economies, recycling, fighting against pollution and littering, and natural resource conservation. The delegation met, among others, with Shaker Lakes Nature Center, Rust Belt Riders, Rid-All Green Partnership, Power a Clean Future Ohio, Cleveland Heights Green Team, and Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District.
Rid-All Green Partnership site visit
The professional program offered the delegates a fresh perspective on effective models of public-private collaboration when it comes to planning and designing environmental goals and targets. They also gained insights into innovative solutions related to green transition and waste management. Moreover, the program sparked ideas for impactful environmental educational campaigns targeted at local communities, encouraging them to actively contribute to building a greener future.
The delegates returned to Poland with inspiration and sustainable solutions that they intend to introduce within their respective local communities. More about the inspirations drawn from the Program can be read here.
The Open World Program is funded by the United States Congress and is operated by the Congressional Office for International Leadership. Open World brings emerging leaders from Eurasia to the U.S. for an intensive exchange with their professional counterparts. American Councils is a logistic partner for Open World.
