Environmental Finance Center, University of Maryland
The Environmental Finance Center (EFC) at the University of Maryland is focused on protecting natural resources and watersheds by “strengthening the capacity of local decision-makers to analyze environmental problems, develop innovative and effective methods of financing environmental efforts and educate communities about the role of finance and economic development in the protection of the environment.” Through direct community engagement and capacity development, EFC provides local leaders with targeted financial policy analysis and decision support processes. Their goal is to provide each community with the resources they need to make informed financing and policy decisions.
EFC is working on a number of initiatives including Sustainable Maryland Certified, which is a certification program that supports municipalities in Maryland in implementing environmental and sustainability programs.
EFC launched an interactive green infrastructure financing map that uses infographics for 20 communities from across the country, with a special emphasis on the innovative financing tools they have used to build green communities.
EFC works each year with several communities in the region to revitalize their stormwater management and financing programs. More information can be found on EFC’s website about this work in Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.
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Related Resources:
- Mainstreaming Sea Level Rise Preparedness in Local Planning and Policy on Maryland's Eastern Shore
- Holistically Analyzing the Benefits of Green Infrastructure - Guidance for Local Governments
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