Washington companies in the fields of architecture, design, engineering, and environmental remediation can learn how to access the British Columbia market in an event in downtown Seattle on April 27th. The Washington-British Columbia Sustainability Industries Summit brings together Canadian government officials, experts in technical fields and trade associations to outline business opportunities and demonstrate how sustainability is transforming the business environment in British Columbia.

Sustainability is an emerging theme in the region, and sustainability is a key characteristic of some major upcoming events in BC: the 2010 Olympics, GLOBE 2006, a premier environmental trade show and conference, and the World Urban Forum. By partnering with BC firms, Washington companies can gain access to these events and to a worldwide audience.

Scheduled speakers include Alex Zimmerman, President, Canada Green Building Council; Brenda Metropolit, Environment Canada; and John Wiebe, CEO, GLOBE 2006.

The International Trade Division of the State of Washington Department of Community Trade and Economic Development (CTED) is organizing the event. Sponsoring organizations include the Consulate General of Canada, GLOBE 2006, the Network for Business Innovation and Sustainability, the Northwest Environmental Business Council, the Trade Development Alliance of Greater Seattle and the US Export Assistance Center.

The event will be held at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in down Seattle from 7:30 AM to 12:00 noon. The event fee is $35 and registration must be in advance. Advance registration deadline is Monday, April 25th.

For more information contact Andrew Crowder at the International Trade Division of Washington State Department of Community Trade and Economic Development, 206-256-6140.