EcoPartnerships are voluntary arrangements that stem from the U.S. - China Ten Year Energy and Environment Cooperation Framework established at the fourth meeting of the U.S. - China Strategic Economic Dialogue. The framework was developed to address the challenges of environmental sustainability and climate change with one objective being the initiation of EcoPartnerships between like-minded organizations in U.S. and China.

EcoPartnerships are intended to serve as a conduit at the sub-national level for the exchange of best practices regarding environmental sustainability issues. To date, seven EcoPartnerships have been formed, with a goal to advance the energy security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability of both partners.

In December of 2008, the City of Wichita, Kansas and Wuxi, China entered into an EcoPartnership agreement.

Beijing, China- EcoPartnership Signing Ceremony

The Wichita-Wuxi EcoPartnership specifically focuses on the exchange of best practices regarding clean air and water on a municipal and industrial levels, and is managed by the Kansas World Trade Center.

Both cities have committed to expanding the current EcoPartnership model to enhance information and business exchange to further foster economic development and sustainable growth in new and existing industries such as agriculture, aviation, and energy.

For more information on the background of the Wichita-Wuxi EcoPartnership, download our Fact Sheet.

In August of 2009, a delegation from the City of Wuxi visited Wichita to initiate conversation to further explore the water systems and technology implemented in the area. Local companies involved in similar technology, supporting services and other sustainable processes presented to the delegation to further their knowledge of the local resources here in Kansas.

The highlight of the visit included the signing by both city governments of a Letter of Intent to formally acknowledge the intent of both parties to strengthen the bilateral cooperation in various fields and facilitate economic and community development. This commitment to expand the scope of cooperation will allow for strengthened economic and trade cooperation, promotion of business exchange, greater communication between governments, and expanded industry focus to include aviation and bio-industries.

Wichita, KS - Letter of Intent Signing Ceremony