Center for Sustainable Processes and Practices (CSP2) at Portland State University

The Center for Sustainable Processes and Practices is the hub for cross-disciplinary research, teaching, and engagement in sustainability at Portland State University.

Established in 2006, the Center provides leadership, guidance and catalytic investment for students, faculty, and partnerships from a diverse array of academic disciplines. Early efforts have emphasized four focal areas: the integration of human societies and the natural environment; creating sustainable urban communities; implementing sustainability and mechanisms of change; and measuring sustainability.

The Center administers the ten-year, $25 million challenge grant for sustainability made by the James F. and Marion L. Miller Foundation to Portland State in September 2008.

The Center also manages the Graduate Certificate in Sustainability at PSU. The goal is to provide an understanding of sustainability principles integrated across all fields of study, rather than as a specific course.

Currently, the Center is led by interim director John Gordon. A national search for a permanent director is underway (a job description is available here).

A complete list of the Center staff and affiliated faculty is available here.

PSU Sustainability Vision

To be an internationally recognized university known for excellence in student learning, innovative research, and community engagement that simultaneously advance economic vitality, environmental health, and quality of life.

PSU Sustainability Mission

To serve as a leading academic laboratory for developing sustainable processes and practices using multi-disciplinary approaches in partnership with business, government, and other organizations.

PSU's commitment to sustainability is outlined further in its Declaration of Support for Sustainability.