Environment Meets Economics

Legislative Updates Archive

Organic. All Natural. Sustainable. Green.  We all know the buzz words, we’ve seen the advertisements, read the fine print and understand the importance of implementing more environmentally friendly practices into our everyday lives. But how often do we think about how sustainable living (and working and traveling) can have a major impact on our ability to grow and strengthen our regional economy?

More than just buying sustainable products and implementing recycling programs in our homes and offices, we at the Indy Chamber join others throughout the region in our commitment to support programs that lay the groundwork for environmental sustainability that makes us attractive to future jobs and investment.

For years, our member base has lead the charge in advocating for legislation and programs focused on protecting our natural resources and maintaining a culture of community investment in our regional environment. Recent studies have shown that today’s professionals are drawn to communities that support green living with amenities like alternative transportation, bike lanes, and natural water resources.

Of late, the Indy Chamber has been vocal on issues including advocating for an improved, comprehensive regional mass transit plan and assessing the region's growing water needs. These have been and will continue to be a major focus for our advocacy efforts and Transportation, Infrastructure and Environment council leadership.

Mass Transit
The Indy Chamber is the leading advocate for efforts to improve economic opportunity and workforce mobility through strategic investment in a regional transit system. During the 2014 legislative session, we saw tremendous movement on this front as SB176 advanced further than any other transit bill in the past. We will continue working with community partners throughout the Indianapolis region to continue building support for expanding transit via a possible referendum in 2016.  

Water:
In 2010, the Indy Chamber led a study of the region’s water supply. Recognizing that population growth, variable weather conditions, and water-quality degradation in the region require skilled management of our regional resources, the Indy Chamber continues to closely monitor this issue today. Long-term planning based on efficient use and a regional approach to managing finite water supplies will improve the Indianapolis region’s economic opportunities, promote continued regional growth, and help secure central Indiana’s future.

Many of the Indy Chamber’s member businesses join in our commitment to protect, serve and advocate on environmental issues that impact our economy. As we continue these efforts, we invite you to join the conversation and help strengthen our impact on our region’s future.