Who We Are
Founded in 1993, the Syracuse University Environmental Finance Center (SU-EFC) facilitates the development of sustainable and resilient communities throughout US EPA Region 2 (New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, and eight Native Nations) and nationally.
SU-EFC is housed at the Syracuse University Center for Sustainable Community Solutions (CSCS). Guided by a strong commitment to equity and environmental justice, we enhance the administrative and financial capacities of state and local government officials, nonprofit organizations, and private sectors to make positive changes in environmental infrastructure and quality of life.
Our Mission
We aim to advance efficient and effective environmental improvement projects and problem-solving through capacity development and community participation in decision-making processes, focusing on public infrastructure education and training, financing, and regulatory tools.
Our Methods
At SU-EFC, we work with elected representatives and technical assistance providers to assess community awareness and support for environmental improvement projects, including water and wastewater management, drinking water protection, sustainable materials management, land use planning, agricultural infrastructure, and energy efficiency.
Operating at the crossroads of science, policy, and communication, we bridge the gap between elected officials and the public by presenting factual information from a neutral position. Our outreach methods include public meetings, roundtable discussions, technical assistance and training, and participating in conferences and summits. Our experience shows that environmental improvement projects succeed more often when the public is engaged in decision-making early on.
Environmental Finance Center Network (EFCN)
We partner with university and nonprofit-based Environmental Finance Centers across the country through the Environmental Finance Center Network (EFCN). The EFCN works to promote sustainable environmental solutions while bolstering efforts to manage costs.