The Center for the Urban Environment (CUE) has been a valued contributor to GL over the last year and during that time they moved from Prospect Park to an area close to our own hearts, Gowanus. As they celebrate their 30th anniversary this month, we caught up with Executive Director, Sandi Franklin to ask her a few questions.
Q: Everyone seems to be “going green” these days. What makes CUE unique? 
Franklin: Green has been used by so many in so many ways, that most folks need to constantly redefine what it means to them on a personal basis. That’s where CUE’s role as an agent of education and information is critical in guiding and sorting through the myriad ways that green needs to be part of a healthy and sustainable future.
Q: Where do you see CUE ten years from now?
Franklin: Ten years is a long way out. But in the upcoming decade, we’ll make use of technological advancements in order to reach more urbanities—not just New Yorkers—with our products and services. There are so many great initiatives across the city and country, one of the principal challenges of the next decade will be working to connect all of them meaningfully and practically.
Q: You were recently awarded “Citizen of the Year” by the business community and Executive Council for your leadership in the field and beyond—what was that like?
Franklin: The dynamism between the for-profit and nonprofit fields is such an exciting engine of innovation. Our launch of the Sustainable Business Network NYC (SBNYC) promotes that same vital sprit of partnership by making investments in the community that are focused on creating green collar jobs, strengthening the city’s aging infrastructure and empowering local markets. Whether you come at them as a business leader or head of a nonprofit, these spaces of collaboration are vital to the city’s future.
