‘Collaboration is where the magic is going to happen’
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Northeast Iowa Environmental Action Network
Building community resilience and sustainability.
Imagine a network where environment-focused organizations share resources, support each other’s advocacy work, and deliver a common agenda.
That’s the goal of our Environmental Action Network. Together, we can leverage collective ingenuity and secure funding to help tackle Northeast Iowa’s most pressing issues, including soil and water quality, energy efficiency, and preservation of natural ecosystems.
Why It Matters
The Midwest – especially the Great Plains – receives less funding from national organizations than any other U.S. region. When it comes environmental issues specifically, Iowa receives just 0.2% of national funding.
At the same time, our region faces environmental issues that are directly linked to people’s health and well-being. Tackling these challenges requires the collaboration of leaders and organizations from different sectors, including conservation, agriculture, city planning and public works.
No single organization is responsible for the care and stewardship of our environment. It’s a job for all of us.
How It Works
We take a three-step approach to driving action and impact.
Educate: We convene partners, raise public awareness of issues, and highlight the need for funding.
Engage: We connect with funders who want to address environmental issues in the Midwest and Iowa, and we raisee funds to implement strategies.
Enact: We work with stakeholders to develop and implement strategies, then assess and refine the approach.
What's at Stake
Iowa has the second-highest rate of cancer in the United States and is one of the few states where rates are rising. Environmental factors include manure production (No. 1 producer in the U.S.), pesticide use, radon exposure, nitrates in soil and water, and air quality. (Source: "Environmental Risk Factors and Iowa’s Cancer Crisis,” Iowa Environmental Council and The Harkin Institute)
Iowa produces 21.1 metric tons of carbon dioxide per capaita (68 million metric tons in total), meaning it ranks 13th in per capita emissions among all 50 states. (Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration)
Iowa one of the top 10 states for total energy consumption per capita. Almost three-fifths of thee state's total energy use is due to the industrial sector, and Iowa is one of the top 10 states for total industrial sector energy use. (Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration)
Why Take Action?
Improving air, water and soil quality leads to positive health outcomes.
Addressing energy consumption saves residents money on utilities.
Changing agricultural practices reduces harmful effects of chemicals.
Shifting to renewable energy sources reduces carbon dioxide emissions.
Supporting local energy and agriculture keeps money in Iowa communities.
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