environment

Research projects concerning the environment are a top priority for CGGC. The Center is interested in establishing partnerships with organizations that focus on environmental issues, as exemplified in our ongoing collaboration with Environmental Defense Fund (EDF).

What can value chain analysis tell us about environmental issues? The Center's Manufacturing Climate Solutions research track sheds light on the U.S. job opportunities linked to environmentally friendly technologies, from an energy-efficient window in a home to a solar power plant that can serve a community. For each technology we map out the path of value-adding activities that wind from raw materials through components, subcomponents, and other stages to the product's final end use, highlighting the needed labor and skills. By contrast, the Value Chain Analysis to Identify Lead Firms and Leverage Points track examines the value chain for a given industry, for instance, U.S. beef production, and the key companies that wield disproportionate influence in environmental decision-making. Our analysis seeks to fully understand the roles of all the players in the value chain and find leverage points where companies can play a leadership role in implementing environmental best practices.  

Our value chain analysis method was highlighted at the February 2009 Good Jobs, Green Jobs National Conference in Washington, DC. To view video highlights and presentations, click here.