Austin Helps Create National Sustainability System
By jag61082 | January 21, 2011
Austin is known for residents who work hand in hand with each other, government agencies, public municipalities and non-profit organizations to create the best possible community.
Residents have proven that they can work together to solve pollution problems, help the environment, reduce energy problems, help the poor and more. Many of the problems that plague most cities are much less prevalent in Austin. You know why? Austinites don’t wait around for someone else to take care of their problems for them. Organizations on a national level have recognized this and want to spread the attitude and knowledge nationwide.
According to Austin City Connection, ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability USA has chosen Austin as one of the ten cities it will use as a STAR Beta Community. Their goal is to help refine the rating system’s metrics. The ratings system currently includes 81 goals and 10 guiding principles to outline efforts by the community to create sustainability.
Austin will have to collaborate with ICLEI-Local to design a new high tech, cutting edge performance management software program. The Green Building Council, the National League of Cities and the Center for American Progress are working hand in hand with ICLEI-Local. Together they will collaborate with more than 150 sustainability experts and organization that represent non-profit organizations, private business, national associations, federal agencies, counties and cities.
Other STAR Beta Communities are:
Atlanta, GA
Boulder, CO
Cranberry Township, PA
Chattanooga, TN
Des Moines, IA
King County, WA
New York, NY
St Louis, MO
Washington, DC
Read the Austin City Connection press release here.
This photo is courtesy of Pets Welcome.
