Celebrating Pioneers of Sustainability: Amy Joslin’s Legacy
As Women’s History Month 2026 embraces the theme Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future, it becomes imperative to recognize the impactful contributions of women like Amy Joslin. Her pioneering efforts in sustainability have left an indelible mark on Multnomah County and beyond.
Amy Joslin’s journey as a public servant began in 1994 when she joined Multnomah County’s Facilities and Property Management Division. Her commitment to energy efficiency soon evolved into a broader vision as she became the County’s first Sustainability Program Manager. Amy’s innovative mindset paved the way for the establishment of the Office of Sustainability, a concept she championed.
Her early initiatives included advocating for green buildings and adopting LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) standards for the County. By the early 2000s, Amy was at the forefront of addressing climate change at the local government level. She played a pivotal role in drafting the 2001 County-City Local Action Plan on Global Warming, highlighting the urgency of climate action.
In 2002, Amy recruited Molly Chidsey as the County’s first Pollution Prevention Specialist. Reflecting on Amy’s dedication, Molly recalls, “She was trying to get County leaders’ attention about how harmful climate change was going to be for the health of low-income people, people with existing health conditions, and people living outside.” Amy’s foresight extended to preparing the region for severe storms and supply chain disruptions.
Amy Joslin’s legacy includes the formation of a Food Policy Council and the initiation of a collaborative climate effort with the City of Portland. Her cross-departmental teams addressed climate risks, establishing significant partnerships, including one with the County’s Public Health Division. As a dedicated bike commuter, Amy also launched the Employee Commute Options program, encouraging sustainable commuting among County employees.
Perhaps Amy’s most enduring legacy is the Multnomah Building Green Roof, a project that the County Commissioners dedicated in her honor in 2005. This pioneering green roof serves multiple purposes: slowing and filtering rainwater, providing insect habitats, and insulating the building. It is lauded as an ambitious project that offers a deeper soil medium for flowering plants, set against the iconic Portland skyline.
The green roof and its adjacent public space have become a community hub, hosting gatherings and celebrations under Amy’s vision of environmental harmony. Her legacy endures through a bronze plaque that commemorates her spirit and dreams, reminding all of her belief in doing the right thing.
Amy’s life was tragically cut short in 2005 when she passed away at the age of 36 after battling cancer. Nevertheless, her contributions continue to inspire those striving for a sustainable future.
Original Story at multco.us