2024 Cascadia Grey to Green Conference

All images courtesy of Green Roofs for Healthy Cities

Green Roofs for Healthy Cities is hosting the Cascadia Grey to Green Conference at Portland State University from July 25 – 26, which focuses on promoting the investment and implementation of green infrastructure to support healthy communities. This conference will address the critical role of green infrastructure in enhancing resilience to the climate crisis, and how green infrastructure can help respond to the affordable housing crisis. Approved for 7 CEUs from GRP, and pending approval from ASLA and AIA. Register today and receive an early bird rate!

The conference will spotlight Portland’s pioneering efforts in green roof implementation. In 2019, Portland adopted a mandatory green roof requirement for new buildings, setting a benchmark for green roof policy in North America. However, recent deliberations by the Portland City Council to potentially suspend this requirement underscore the importance of ongoing advocacy and dialogue.

Attendees will experience an engaging program tailored for designers, contractors, installers, maintenance professionals, and policymakers. The conference will feature informative sessions covering various aspects of green infrastructure implementation, maintenance, and policy frameworks. From practical insights on installation techniques to discussions on regulatory compliance and market trends, participants will gain valuable knowledge to drive climate mitigation, and make positive changes in their communities.

Keynote speakers include Dr. Elizabeth Fassman Beck, Head of Engineering at the Southern California Coastal Water Research Project, and Vanessa Keitges, President & CEO, Columbia Green Technologies. Topics will range from stormwater management and green roof design to climate justice and maintenance best practices.

On July 25 GRHC will be offering the Green Roof Installation and Maintenance Professional (GRIMP) Training which will equip participants with essential knowledge and skills in green roof installation and maintenance.

Additionally, the conference will offer training sessions, tours, technical presentations, panel discussions, and a trade show, providing attendees with ample opportunities for networking and knowledge exchange.

Early bird registration is now open until July 19th. Interested individuals are encouraged to register early to take advantage of discounted rates. For more information and registration, visit our website.

Thank you to our partner, Green Roof Information Think-tank, and our sponsors, Etera, Columbia Green, and Portland State University.

~ Green Roofs for Healthy Cities

Green Roofs for Healthy Cities (GRHC) is a non-profit 501(c)(6) professional industry association working to grow the green roof and wall industry throughout North America since 1999. Our mission is to develop and protect the market by increasing the awareness of the economic, social, and environmental benefits of green roofs, green walls, and other forms of living architecture through education, advocacy, professional development, and celebrations of excellence.

GRHC publishes The Living Architecture Monitor quarterly online magazine where industry leaders share their insights and expertise. These articles increase awareness of the economic, social, and environmental benefits of green roofs, walls and other forms of living architecture.

GRHC also offers free access to The Living Architecture Academy, an online professional development platform which is dedicated to bringing you the best, most up to date professional training information on design, installation and maintenance practices across a wide range of green infrastructure topics. The LAA offers short lectures and multi-day courses such as: Green Roof Professional Training, Introduction to Green Walls, Biodiverse Green Roof Maintenance, and more.

GRHC also publishes the Green Pages: Industry Green Roof and Wall Directory which is designed to support you with your living architecture projects by providing a list of trusted manufacturers, suppliers of accessories, green walls, nurseries, and certified Green Roof Professionals (GRPs). From small-scale residential projects to large commercial installations, this directory has everything you need to find support to create a sustainable and beautiful living space.

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