Some of the recommended actions would be a departure from traditional practices for municipal governments, businesses, and residents.
However, making these changes would benefit municipalities for the following reasons:
It’s important for the stability of the environment and the future of our children
Scientists are no longer debating whether man-made climate change is happening. The scientific discourse now revolves around whether or not today’s society can survive the predicted changes and how close the world is to several “tipping points” that would irreversibly push the climate into a new regime far beyond anything humans have ever experienced. Several engineering studies have shown that it is well within our society’s technological and manufacturing abilities to prevent catastrophic climate change. The only question is if we will act decisively.
Municipalities can plan for how best to take these actions, before they become mandatory
Federal and state leaders recognize the gravity of the situation. Laws and regulations are currently being drafted and enacted that will mandate that more sustainable practices be followed at the local level. By planning and acting now, municipalities can decide how to move toward more sustainable practices that fit best for each community.
Other municipalities, states, and nations have moved far ahead of us on climate stability
Due to years of inaction, other New York communities (e.g. New York City, Ithaca, Bedford, etc.), other states (e.g. California), and other nations (e.g. Germany, Holland, and Scandinavian countries) have moved far ahead of the Capital Region. They have shown us that the path forward is feasible and conveys many benefits that our residents are missing out on.
Adopting sustainable practices will create jobs
The changes needed to reduce our carbon emissions will require local labor to implement. New businesses will be created and existing businesses will flourish. People who are unemployed and underemployed will be trained to meet the demand for skilled labor.
Sustainability saves money for residents
Many sustainability practices can save money directly through reduced waste, lower energy bills or reduced cost of ownership (e.g. electric vehicles are less expensive to drive and maintain than internal combustion engines.) Some practices result in indirect savings, through reduced medical and insurance rates.
Sustainability leads to better living
Many sustainability practices will result in residents having more comfortable houses, from better insulation and fewer air leaks. Other practices lead to a generally happier life through quieter streets, less time driving in traffic, more greenspace, and the sense of well-being that goes along with providing a better life for our children and their children.
Sustainability improves health
Fossil fuel combustion emits particulate matter and other harmful pollutants – both inside the home and in our neighborhoods. Switching to non-fossil energy sources will result in better health and longer life for all of our residents.
Sustainability iNcreases Local AgRicultre
Community sustainability practices include increasing local food production, better land management, support for micro-farming, and organic waste composting for improved soil health. These activities benefit all residents, increase local economic activity, reduce dependence on distant supply chains for our food, and help retain essential agricultural skills and activities.