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An early leader in the movement to create more sustainable businesses is merging with the .

announced today its three-person operation will join the Cascadia Green Building Council, the northwest chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council. The Natural Step is a Portland-based nonprofit that helps businesses and organizations reduce their environmental impact. Formed by Swedish doctor Karl-Henrik Robèrt in 1989, The Natural Step framework is considered a pioneering document in the sustainability movement.

The move, according to Natural Step’s executive director Regina Hauser will allow both groups to merge their resources to carry out their groups’ similar missions.

“We saw real synergy in the missions of both our organizations,” Hauser said. “Cascadia touches more than just builders. Our collaboration will help all businesses continue to be more sustainable.”

The two groups will sit down this week to discuss their agenda for 2011. The Natural Step plans to move into Cascadia’s offices in the coming months.