Whenever possible, ETG has incorporated environmental and sustainable considerations into its economic clustering methodology. For example, the mission for the Institute for Lake Superior Research was to develop the research and knowledge base necessary to guide policy decisions to maintain the environmental integrity of Lake Superior. Professionals on the ETG team identified the resources available to address the research and information-transfer needs for ensuring the ecological integrity of Lake Superior and also proposed an administrative and management structure for the Institute.
Similarly, ETG staff were hired by the North American Development Bank (NADBank)to plan and facilitate Cross Border Environmental Planning among the Border Environmental Cooperation Commission, NADBank, the Commission Nacionale de Agua that larger economic a focus on sustainability and environmental into its economic clustering approach, the International Boundary and Water Commission and the US EPA. ETG designed and facilitated a three day workshop that produced consensus on goals and roles and an action plan for the participating agencies in the upcoming year
ETG’s clustering work in Tabasco, Mexico (2002-2004) resulted in the formation of eight clusters and the involvement of more than 600 business leaders throughout the state of Tabasco Tabasco in Action, implemented more than 60 action initiatives by the end of the first year. One cluster focused on aquaculture. A second cluster, The Organic Chocolate Cluster integrated some of the environmentally proven principles of permaculture, organic farming, and natural processes. A high quality, organically grown chocolate is being produced and is in demand throughout Europe and other major markets.
ETG staff has been pioneering Sustainable Rural Economic Clustering in Mexico and supportive of the micro-region initiative among the rural women in the state of Tabasco. These mostly poor farmers are rapidly organizing Cajas de Ahorro, or local savings groups, locally managed and directed so that loans can be made to neighboring families. The indigenous leadership that has stepped forward has gained the trust and support of large groups of women. Their experience and the profits from repayment of the loans has generated pride, self-confidence, and a sense of power and hopefulness for a better future for the children. The Cajas de Ahorro provide the foundation for other rural and sustainable economic development initiatives. Mexico’s national ministry of social develop (SEDESOL), is funding ETG to further develop this model of Sustainable Rural Economic Clustering and training locally and in other regions throughout Mexico.
The North Dakota New Economy Initiative is a statewide, action-oriented effort to mobilize North Dakotans around new ideas to grow the economy and create a more dynamic and prosperous state. The Energy and Environment cluster was formed, integrating leaders of conventional energy companies with those of renewable energy companies, including wind energy. North Dakota ranks #1 nationally in wind resources. One of the most environmentally significant initiatives that was launched led to the establishment of an 80 megawatt Wind Energy Farm that has gained in significance as the world is becoming more aware of the coming demise of fossil fuels.
