Sustainable Path Foundation Programs
In partnership with others, we seek evidence-based solutions to the interconnected problems in our world. Our combination of collaborative philanthropy, grant-making, and education provides a unique opportunity for scientifically informed charitable giving that leverages the contributions of our donors and volunteers and produces significant change in our region.
Our three program areas include collaborative group philanthropy, regional grant-making and an educational seminar series.
Recent Successes and Current Challenges
Success Story:
Washington Toxics Coalition
Sharing a common vision that change is promoted by collecting and disseminating key scientific data Sustainable Path Foundation provided seed funding to Washington Toxics Coalition for a pioneering research study that measured toxic chemicals in new mothers. Breast milk was chosen as an effective way to measure exposure of both mother and child to environmental pollutants because it’s easy to collect and its high fat content makes it useful for monitoring toxic chemicals that accumulate and persist in the body. As infants depend on breast milk for nutrition and protection against infection, the discovery of toxic chemicals is especially impactful. In 2007, as a direct result of this project, Washington State passed the country’s first legislation banning a harmful class of chemicals. The results of this early project initiated a 7 -year partnership with Washington Toxics that demonstrated the presence of numerous toxic chemicals in household products, children’s toys and people of all ages and walks of life.
Sustainable Path’s continued funding provided not only the support needed to conduct scientific research but also to publicize the findings, and educate and inform decision makers about the need for legislative change. Additional outcomes from this relationship include:
- The 2008 Children’s Safe Products Act in Washington State, requiring mandatory disclosure of toxic chemicals present in products.
- The 2009 Environmental Protection Agency’s negotiations with the three largest manufacturers of PBDEs (a class of toxic chemicals used as flame retardants) to phase them out nationally by 2012.
- The 2010 Safe Baby Bottle Act, banning the use of BPA (a toxic chemical commonly used in certain plastics) in Washington State.