Summit explored sustainable growth strategies, honored regional innovators, and emphasized regional collaboration to grow a resilient Central Ohio
The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) welcomed nearly 700 attendees to the Hilton Columbus Downtown for the 2024 Summit on Sustainability, the annual signature environmental conference. This year’s Summit brought together leaders to explore and share sustainable solutions and to celebrate individuals and collaborative efforts making a difference in Central Ohio. This year’s theme, Growing Better Together, highlighted collaborative approaches for resilient and sustainable regional growth, with sessions focused on critical topics like water reuse, circular economy models, clean energy financing, sustainable development, and passenger rail restoration.
“As our region continues to grow, we must work together to make Central Ohio an even better place to call home. We need to prioritize sustainability, protect our natural resources, and ensure that every neighborhood shares in our region’s prosperity. Events like this are critical to bring together community leaders who look for ways to collaborate on transformative projects, aim to build stronger neighborhoods and resilience in water and energy needs.”
This year’s morning plenary featured insights from national experts on critical topics shaping our future, including growth, economic development, transportation mobility, and housing. Panelists included LisaBeth Barajas, executive director of community development, Metropolitan Council of the Twin Cities, Chuck Wemple, executive director, Houston-Galveston Area Council, and Geraldine Gardner, executive director, Centralina Regional Council.
Renowned urban planner Jeff Speck headlined the event as the keynote luncheon speaker, captivating attendees with insights on the power of walkable cities to promote vibrant, connected communities. Speck, author of Walkable City, emphasized how thoughtful urban design can drive economic vitality, sustainability, and health within growing regions.
“Sustainability is about creating places where people want to be. Connected, walkable and resilient communities support both people and the planet. When we prioritize sustainable design, we’re not just enhancing quality of life today; we’re investing in a healthier, more vibrant future for generations to come.”
Each year, MORPC recognizes individuals and organizations demonstrating leadership and a commitment to sustainability, planning, and practices across the region. This year’s Regional Sustainability Awards recognized Kristy Hawthorne, District Program Administrator, Licking County Soil and Water District, as the recipient of the 2024 Leadership in Sustainability Award; Trail Towns Working Group, as the recipient of the 2024 Collaborative Achievement in Sustainability Award; and Mike Andrako, Franklin County Engineers Office, as the recipient of the 2024 Leadership in Mobility Award.
“This year’s honorees exemplify the power of innovation and dedication to advancing sustainability across Central Ohio. Their leadership and collaborative spirit remind us that meaningful change happens when communities come together with shared purpose. Each honoree’s efforts inspire us all to build a healthier, more connected, and resilient region.”
Energy, water quality, housing, active transportation, social equity, and economic development were some of the topics featured at the day-long summit. The event included an attendee favorite, Pecha Kucha-style presentations from Carlie Boos, Affordable Housing Alliance of Central Ohio; Bernita Reese, City of Columbus, Recreation and Parks Department; Elizabeth Ellman, City of Bexley; and Natalie Kruse Daniels, Ohio University.
This year’s summit was made possible thanks to the Presenting Sponsor NOPEC; Connecting Sponsors Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA); Ohio Environmental Protection Agency; Ohio University, Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Service; and The Ohio State University. Supporting Sponsors include AECom; Burgess & Niple; City of Bexley; City of Columbus, Office of Diversity and Inclusion; Columbus State Community College; City of Dublin; Franklin County; Planning Next; SOPEC; Sustainable Columbus; and SWACO. Breakout Session Sponsors include Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority; Community Advisors; Kegler, Brown, Hill + Ritter; MurphyEpson; National Center for Urban Solutions (NCUS); and the Ohio Air Quality Development Authority.
To view a copy of MORPC’s Regional Sustainability Agenda, visit REGIONAL SUSTAINABILITY AGENDA – MORPC.org,
