The Center was developed through conversations with community activists who saw the need for policy research and education on energy and community development issues, with an inclusion of social justice and equity. The Center works at the intersection of energy-environment and community-social development, promoting solutions that are democratic, sustainable and socially just.

Working in collaboration with grassroots communities, policy makers and researchers, the Center conducts research and provides community education on important energy, environment, and development issues - so that all members of society may effectively participate in public decision-making. The Center's main focus is on developing effective and fair solutions to climate change, energy affordability, environmental justice, and sustainable development. We are especially concerned with ensuring that the voice of all communities, including Indigenous peoples, communities of color, and the poor are included in the political and policy process.

Climate Policy
The Center works to develop and ensure energy policy solutions to climate change are equitable and sustainable. Policy engagement occurs at multiple levels and in partnership with grassroots communities, policy makers and researchers.

Environmental Justice
The Center provides technical assistance, community education, and analysis for communities on the social and environmental impacts upon low-income, communities of color, and Indigenous peoples.

Economic and Community Development
The Center partners with communities to create community-based sustainability plans that include the convergence of energy, environment, and social sustainability.

The Production of Unequal Nature: A discussion of how nature and society intersect.
December 2002 | John Byrne, Leigh Glover and Cecilia Martinez | July 2008 | PDF

A Brief on Environmental Justice: Environmental justice within a global perspective.
December 2002 | John Byrne, Cecilia Martinez and Leigh Glover | PDF