National Sustainability

To whom it may concern,

First defined by the United Nations Brundtland report as providing for the needs of the current generation without compromising the needs of future generations, sustainability is an all-encompassing term that can be difficult to fully comprehend. As a global idea, it will take hard work to narrow down the scope of sustainability to fully realize it through the millions of potential and mostly local implementation projects and programs. Reducing vehicle trips, using low VOC paints, installing on-site renewable energy production facilities (solar, wind, geothermal), planting trees, expanding and building bike lanes, developing a high speed rail network, capping industrial smoke stacks, producing electric cars, and preserving open space and protecting farmland are just a few of the myriad actions that all work towards sustainability. They also address the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. When discussing sustainability, however, there is much more than just environmental sustainability. Sustainability extends to fiscal, social and cultural indicators as well. As the country moves ahead with energy independence, a new "green" economy, and combating climate change, how will these other factors of sustainability be addressed by the federal government?

GUNNAR HAND, AICP