Pacific Northwest

The Pacific Northwest stands out from other markets in its commitment to sustainability.

Seattle’s hockey team plays in Climate Pledge Arena on runoff from the stadium’s roof. Both states in the region have pledged to become carbon neutral by 2050, with Seattle going a step further and pledging to divest from fossil fuels by 2030. To this end, both Portland and Seattle are investing in their light rail networks, which they see as key parts of their pledges to become carbon neutral. Both networks draw their power from hydroelectricity. In Seattle, there has been a push to connect satellite cities like Tacoma or Redmond to its light rail network. As these cities have benefitted from the shift to remote work, this trend has accelerated. There are currently five planned expansions under construction, two of which are expected to open in the new year. Portland is finishing its Red Line out to Hillsboro, which should also open this year.

* Other structures include religious buildings, amusement, government communications, and public recreation projects.