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Sustainability is generally defined as
meeting the needs of present generation without compromising the ability
of future generations to meet their own needs. It is the intersection between
three concentric circles: ecology, economy, and society.
Our nation’s history of resource use has
been a story of exploitation: Exterminating species, damming rivers,
over-cutting timber, over-harvesting fish, over-developing landscapes,
polluting air and contaminating water, all for short term economic gain.
Sustainability means finding a way to accommodate our human needs without
damaging the environment, and perhaps even restoring damaged ecosystems
so that they function somewhat like they once did.
SERC's approach is based on the notion
that sustainability has three elements: environmental, social, and economic.
We emphasize the importance of positive incentives rather than punitive
actions.
Specific sustainability goals at the state
level need to be established. These goals may address the following:
Activities of state agencies relative to sustainability; State purchasing
policies; State assistance to local communities and businesses to help
them implement sustainability goals; and Coordination and enhancement of
the state's capability to track progress over time.
This website offers the tools necessary
for you to introduce and pass legislation that will increase the sustainability
for your state's natural resources, including a model bill, talking points,
a press release, a fact pack, research, and other background information.
We have other useful materials not yet
posted on the site, so please contact us by email at info@serconline.org
or call us in our Wisconsin office at 608/252-9800 for more information.
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