Community Heat Wave Survey Inspires Oregon Climate Legislation

The Stanford Social Innovation Review reported that community responses to extreme heat in Portland served as the foundation for statewide climate policy in Oregon. In June 2021, a heat dome caused temperatures in Portland to reach 116 degrees, leading to nearly 100 heat-related deaths across the state. [1]

According to the Stanford Social Innovation Review, the Coalition of Communities of Color had an existing partnership with the City of Portland to design energy and building policy. Shortly after the heat wave, the coalition held a community policy workshop where residents shared what they needed to stay cool during extreme heat events. [1]

The Stanford Social Innovation Review noted that workshop organizers asked local community members direct questions about their needs and expenses related to staying cool inside their homes during dangerous heat conditions. [1]