Over the past year, the Salt Lake Chamber’s Sustainability Stories has spotlighted Utah companies leading the way in environmental stewardship, sharing real examples of innovation, responsibility and impact. Today, that work is evolving to meet a growing need within Utah’s business community: access to clear, credible and actionable information on the natural resource issues shaping our economy.
A New Chapter, Built on Trusted Partnership
To support business leaders in navigating increasingly complex challenges tied to land, water and air, the Salt Lake Chamber has formalized a partnership with the Janet Quinney Lawson Institute for Land, Water and Air at Utah State University.
This collaboration builds on years of engagement. The Institute has been a key partner in Utah Rising leadership discussions, contributed to the Public Policy Guide, co-chaired the Natural Resources Business Council and provided science-based insight on issues ranging from air quality and seismic readiness to water pricing and critical minerals.
Together, we are strengthening the connection between Utah’s business community and the science that informs smart decision-making.
From Storytelling to Practical Resources
As Sustainability Stories evolves, it will expand beyond highlighting business successes to also serve as a resource hub, equipping employers with the knowledge and context needed to lead with confidence. Through this effort, the Chamber and the Institute will deliver:
- Accessible, science-based insights on Utah’s natural resources
- Business-relevant context on emerging policy and environmental trends
- Tools to help leaders better understand risks, opportunities and long-term impacts
This shift reflects a simple goal: ensuring Utah businesses have the information they need to remain competitive, resilient and forward-looking.
Featured Resources: Understanding Utah’s Water System
As part of this new direction, we are introducing foundational resources designed to break down complex topics into clear, business-friendly concepts.
Understanding Utah’s Water Balance Sheet
What if Utah’s water system functioned like a financial statement? This resource reframes water through a business lens, helping leaders understand inputs, outputs and reserves in a way that connects directly to risk management and long-term planning.
You’ll learn:
- How precipitation, evaporation and storage work together
- Why water variability matters
- Where opportunities exist to improve efficiency and resilience
Understanding Snowpack
Utah’s snowpack is more than a seasonal metric; it’s a critical indicator of future water supply.
This resource explains how experts measure snowpack using Snow-Water Equivalent (SWE), and why those insights matter for industries across the state.
You’ll explore:
- What snowpack data reveals about upcoming water availability
- Why low snowpack years require proactive planning
- How businesses can respond to changing conditions
Explore the Resources
These materials are designed to be practical, approachable and directly relevant to business decision-making. We invite you to explore the full resources and consider how these insights can inform your organization’s strategy.
Get started:
- Review: Understanding Utah’s Water Balance Sheet
- Explore: Understanding Snowpack and What It Means for Your Business
- Visit: conserverwater.utah.gov for incentives and opportunities to reduce your water footprint
As we continue this work, Sustainability Stories will remain a platform for leadership, now with an added focus on equipping Utah businesses with the knowledge to act. Because a strong economy depends on a healthy environment and informed leaders are essential to both.
