Creating a sustainable world hinges on the commitment and initiatives of companies, governments and communities to generate change at scale. Michigan is stepping up to lead this innovation, just like it has for critical moments throughout history.
The global shift to clean energy has become one of the most pressing challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. With states, nations, and companies setting ambitious climate goals and leading the innovation needed to build a sustainable future, Michigan is standing out as a key player in the fight against climate change. By leveraging its manufacturing know-how and industrial prowess, setting bold statewide targets, and partnering with cutting-edge companies, Michigan is helping to shape the future of clean energy not just domestically, but on a global scale.
Michigan introduced the MI Healthy Climate Plan in April 2022, which lays out a pathway for the state to reach 100% carbon neutrality by 2050. The plan aims to avert the worst impacts of the climate crisis, create good-paying jobs, and build a healthier, more prosperous, equitable, and sustainable state for all Michiganders through seven objectives:
- Mitigate the worst impacts of climate change
- Spur economic development and create good-paying jobs
- Protect and improve the health of Michiganders
- Position Michigan as a leader in climate action
- Protect Michigan’s natural resources and wildlife
- Make Michigan energy independent
- Address environmental injustices
Meanwhile, homegrown companies like Hemlock Semiconductor, one of the largest producers of hyper-pure polysilicon, a critical material for electronics and solar panels and the only one headquartered in America, have utilized federal CHIPS Act funding to expand their footprint in Michigan. Accelerators like Orange Sparkle Ball work with companies like Intermode, which builds custom robotics platforms, and EcoSphere Organics, an alternative materials company, to foster a startup ecosystem and grow sustainability-focused businesses.
As the clean energy sector grows in Michigan, so too must the talent pipeline. The state has invested millions of dollars to attract leading minds who want to do purpose-driven work. This includes a robust recruiting effort of talent from, in, and outside the state and the establishment of reskilling and upskilling programs for professionals to transition their skills from adjacent industries, such as automotive to clean energy. This also includes working with higher education institutions to create new college programs aligned with industry needs.
Through innovation, investment, and collaboration, Michigan is not only contributing to the clean energy movement, but also demonstrating how industrial leadership, combined with an entrepreneurial-friendly environment, can be harnessed to combat climate change. With the support of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and local stakeholders across both its peninsulas, Michigan is poised to be at the forefront of the global transition to a sustainable future.
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