The Midwest Regional Sustainability Summit (MRSS) is the largest sustainability conference in the Midwest, bringing together hundreds of visionary leaders to share ideas and solutions for a healthier, more resilient, and equitable future. The annual summit features a full day of programming, including speakers, exhibitors, interactive sessions, and networking opportunities, covering a wide range of topics from climate justice and green workforce development to resilient food systems and circular economy practices. MRSS serves as a vital platform for collaboration and innovation, inspiring action and accelerating the transition to a sustainable future in the Midwest.

Shownotes

Carol Kauffman is the CEO of the Ohio Environmental Council (OEC). Carol traces the OEC's mission back to its 1969 founding after the Cuyahoga River fire and shares her own path into environmental advocacy through a pivotal experience in Cambodia witnessing deforestation's devastating impact. She explains the OEC's multi-level approach to advocacy, working locally, statewide, and federally to advance environmental protection and community empowerment. The conversation covers OEC's work with Power a Clean Future Ohio, their State House advocacy, executive agency engagement, and efforts to protect Lake Erie and improve water quality. Carol discusses navigating environmental advocacy in today's political climate and emphasizes strategic planning, adaptability, and collaboration. She shares a recent major victory: significant energy policy legislation in Ohio that streamlines project approvals at the Power Siting Board and incentivizes utilities to invest in Advanced Transmission Technology.

A key focus is the Ohio Business Energy Partnership—an unlikely coalition of environmental groups and business leaders advocating for clean energy policy. Carol explains how this cross-sector alliance drives progress at the state level and offers leadership lessons on sharing credit, building authentic relationships, and taking care of your team. She previews her MRSS panel on the Ohio Business Energy Partnership, hoping to inspire similar collaborations and demonstrate the power of working across traditional divides.

Episode in a glance

- Carol’s Path to Environmental Advocacy
- OEC Initiatives
- Challenges Facing Ohio's Environment
- A Win for Energy Policy in Ohio
- The Ohio Business Energy Partnership

About Carol Kauffman

Carol Kauffman is CEO of the Ohio Environmental Council. Her background in international aid and development brings a global perspective to advocating for clean air, safe water, and climate justice in Ohio.

Connect with Carol Kauffman

Website → theoec.org

LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/carol-kauffman/

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