The Northwest Earth Institute is recognized as a national leader in developing innovative programs that empower individuals and organizations to protect the earth. These programs emphasize individual responsibility, the importance of a supportive community, and the dual need to walk lightly on and to take action for the earth. By reaching out to people in their workplace, home, faith center, neighborhood, and community, NWEI provides easy access to tools for individual and cultural change.



The Northwest Earth Institute offers seven different discussion courses: Menu for the Future, Healthy Children - Healthy Planet, Global Warming: Changing Course, Choices for Sustainable Living, Voluntary Simplicity, Discovering a Sense of Place, and Exploring Deep Ecology.
NWEI is currently developing a new course, created specifically with organizations and their sustainability goals in mind.  This course will be available in July 2009.


NWEI programs encourage participants to explore their values, attitudes, and actions through discussion with other people. These programs are organized around three key principles:

* An earth-centered ethic promoting individual responsibility for the earth.

* The practice of engaged simplicity to enrich life and reduce personal impact on the earth.

* A dedication to living fully in place and protecting the unique bioregion in which you live.



NWEI develops innovative programs in Portland, transports them to Northwest communities where they are offered through our chapters or local volunteer groups, and replicates them in other regions through autonomous groups.



Nationwide, our courses have been offered by local organizers in more than 900 communities in all 50 states. As of fall 2008, total enrollment in the discussion courses exceeded 100,000.


Join our bi-annual North American Gathering June 19-22nd in the Columbia River Gorge.  This year's theme is "We're All In", and we will be exploring and discussing how all the segments of society--communities, business, government, faith groups, and higher education--are an essential part of creating a fully sustainable society.  For registration and more information, visit our website.

Help support NWEI during Earth Month by voting for us in NW Natural's Paperless Billing Contest.  View NWEI's film debut on why you should vote for us!