Local change.
A world of difference.

Our mission is to embed sustainability into daily life in Central Oregon. To us, that means driving local change that makes a world of difference.

What's Happening!

Stay up to date on our upcoming events and program offerings.

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Volunteer for Earth Day 2024

We're seeking volunteers for the Earth Day Fair and Parade, Central Oregon's biggest Earth Day celebration! Join us on Saturday, April 20.

This family-friendly event features a lively and inclusive parade through downtown Bend where folks are encouraged to wear costumes to showcase their favorite thing about planet earth. During the fair, food vendors, booths, and performers offer something for everyone.

Check out our volunteer signup form to view open shifts and shift descriptions.

Food Waste Prevention Week

Love food, not waste! Join us in observing Food Waste Prevention Week between April 1-7. Learn more about how you can prevent good food (and money!) from going to waste.

Summer Camp at The Environmental Center

Our Youth Education program is gearing up to host Eco Hero Adventures and Forest Explorers camps this summer!

Summer camp registration is now open!

Our Programs

Putting our passion to work every day to protect our planet, her people, and the future our children will inherit. Join us!

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Envisioning a community that makes responsible decisions about the consumption, use, and disposal of materials.

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Decarbonizing our energy, transportation, and waste systems to tackle climate change head on.

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Helping students understand the connection between humans and the environment, and to make decisions that reduce their impact.

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Growing a network of garden educators and a “Garden For Every School” in Central Oregon.

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Working together to strengthen policies and infrastructure that protect the environment and support economic success.

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Hosting a number of events throughout the year to educate, engage, and empower Central Oregon residents and visitors.

Eco Central

Investing in a vision of Central Oregon as a region that is both ecologically sustainable and economically vibrant.

The Eco Central campaign is shaping the future of our community and planet through education, advocacy and collaboration — all from a new, planned permanent facility that will be a community hub for action.

The Hub

Since 1988, we’ve been your go-to resource, community convener, and friendly neighborhood sustainability hub

Join the Green Workforce!

Find out about current job openings at The Environmental Center, or browse other environment and sustainability-related opportunities here in the region.

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Host a meeting or event at TEC

Located in the heart of downtown Bend, The Environmental Center offers a wonderful meeting space for your next event. Each year, we host over 500 meetings from workshops and training events to private parties and clubs.

Learn More

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Make your next event green with reusable dishware

The Rethink Waste Project offers durable dishware kits in an effort to encourage the community to make the switch from disposables to reusables. Three (3) kits are available in sets of (25) place settings. A kit includes: cups, bowls, plates, spoons, forks, and knives.

Learn More

Events

Check out these upcoming events happening right here in Central Oregon!

Featured Event

Earth Day Parade Upcycled Costumes Workshop

Hello, fellow recyclers and art enthusiasts! Earth Day is just around the corner… and you’re invited to…

Event Details

Upcoming Events