Sign the Charter

Chattanooga translates to “rock rising to a point.” For us, and for those who have dwelled in this area for millennia, it means a place where people and nature converge. This convergence defines our way of life. We aspire to nurture these inherent strengths in a deliberate way that ensures every Chattanoogan reaps the rewards of residing in a city that embodies Southern charm, wilderness, connectivity, and joy.

To lead the world in improving the quality of life for all of us by treating nature as our most valuable shared asset.

How:
Respect what we have
Expand opportunities to connect with nature
Grow nature into the places where we live, work, and gather
Today and for generations to come.

Our Commitments:
We commit to using the simple, proven principles of nature to guide our culture, our connections and our growth.

Nature Principle:  Nature is open and accessible to all — the best aspects of a city should be too.
Commitment
We commit to making nature easy to access and part of everyday life for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Includes:
Scenic views, accessible trails, rivers, and parks
Backyard gardens, chickens, and local farms and food
Walkability and proximity

Nature Principle:  Nature is fun, joyful and beautiful — city life should be too.
Commitment
We commit to cultivating a culture that regularly experiences
the fun, beauty, and wonder of the outdoors together

Includes
Outdoor adventure, sports, and play spaces
Experience based tourism, Art and music festivals, events
Color, creativity, murals, public art

Nature Principle:  Nature grows in balance with the whole ecosystem — a city should grow the same way.
Commitment
We commit to guiding growth and development using the principles of healthy thriving, self-sustaining ecosystems.

Includes
Mobility, street design, connected communities
Integrating nature and green space into development
Resilience, regeneration, and long-term thinking

Nature Principle:  Nature is a living system that must be understood and cared for as a whole — a city should be too.
Commitment
We commit to understanding, respecting, and preserving the unique ecology, history, and cultural roots of this place.

Includes
Wildlife and biodiversity education
Native American history and land awareness
Local species, watersheds, land and ecosystem stewardship

Nature Principle:  Nature thrives through connection — so does a city
Commitment
We commit to strengthening connections between people, neighborhoods, wildlife and local systems.

Includes
technology that strengthens local connection and
neighbor-to-neighbor culture
Gatherings, organizing tools, and collaborative efforts
grassroots ideas and shared institutional knowledge

‍