Episode 10: Using Place-Based Policy to Advance Sustainable Manufacturing Ecosystems w/Kate Gordon​

In this episode, Matt interviews Kate Gordon, a renowned figure in climate and energy policy, where they discuss the transformation of economic development strategies to combat climate change in the United States. She emphasizes the importance of place-based approaches in policy-making, especially in the context of the Department of Energy (DOE). Gordon highlights the shift from a technology-centric view to one that considers the impact on communities and workers. This approach is vital in transitioning to a more sustainable and resilient economy.

The conversation also delves into the role of federal and state interventions in fostering sustainable economic development. The current administration’s focus on rebuilding domestic manufacturing capacity is seen as a critical step towards ensuring economic resilience against climate and geopolitical challenges. Gordon stresses the need for diversification in regional economies, as evidenced by the varied impacts of COVID-19 across different regions. Kate and Matt also discuss the implementation of community benefits plans at the DOE. These plans require private sector entities to consider the social, economic, and environmental impacts of their projects. This approach aims to ensure that federal investments lead to broader benefits, including job creation and community engagement. Don’t miss this thoughtful discussion on economic development that emphasizes sustainability, community engagement, and resilience.

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Thank you to the Economic Development Administration for their partnership in producing this podcast. This podcast was prepared in part using Federal funds under award 3070145 from the Economic Development Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce. The statements, findings, conclusions, and recommendations are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Economic Development Administration or the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Big Concept:

The vital need for rebuilding manufacturing capacity in the United States through a systems approach to economic development and sustainability. Kate Gordon highlights the importance of leveraging regional strengths and assets to build a resilient, diversified, and sustainable economy in response to the changing climate.

Participants:

• Kate Gordon: A leader in climate and energy policy, former senior advisor at the US Department of Energy, known for her work on place-based approaches to DOE policy.
• Matt Bogoshian: Executive Director, American Manufacturing Communities Collaborative and host of the podcast.

📢 Unique Insights from Kate:

• Place-Based Policy Shift at DOE: Kate Gordon’s contribution to the DOE involved a significant shift towards place-based policies, focusing on how technology impacts actual people and communities.
• The Role of Federal and State Interventions: Insights into the complex interplay between federal and state-level initiatives in driving sustainable economic development and manufacturing, particularly under the current administration.
• The Impact of Climate Change on Planning: Kate emphasizes the necessity of incorporating climate impact considerations into economic and regional planning, as these impacts will persist and intensify over time.

💡 Key Ideas:

• Regional Asset Mapping: The importance of understanding and leveraging existing regional assets, infrastructure, and workforce skills in planning for economic transitions.
• Sustainable Economic Development: Emphasis on the need for an economy that is not only productive but also resilient to climatic and geopolitical shocks.
• Diversification of Economy: The critical need for regions to diversify their economic base, as demonstrated by different responses to COVID-19 impacts across various regions.

🔗Links:

• Connect with Kate Gordon on Linkedin.
• Follow AMCC
• Find Matt on Linkedin
• Visit our website