Learn about the origins of The Walker Foundation and the factors that have shaped its focus on market solutions and environmental problem solving.

Foundation Origins

Historic Overview

Thomas Walker and son Alex C. Walker

Objectives of the Foundation

Set forth by founder Alex C. Walker and updated by court petition

Pittsburgh Then: Economic and Environmental Problems

Air Crisis in Pittsburgh

Smog made Pittsburgh as dark as midnight at noon.

Water and Flooding Crisis in Pittsburgh

Civic leaders joined forces to prevent future disasters.

Pittsburgh Now: Environmental Action Cleaning Up the Air   Smog control was enacted in 1948. With improved air quality, cleaned buildings stayed free of grime. Watershed Protection   To control flooding and reduce pollution originating in the headwaters of Pittsburgh's rivers, national forests were established at the urging of industrialists. Walker Foundation Goals   The Walker Foundation applies free-market solutions to economic, environmental, and global problems of the 21st century.