Sustainability
Sustainable Paradise Valley
Every day we hear news about global warming, catastrophic weather events, high oil fuel prices, global food shortages, record foreclosure rates, increased unemployment and a record number of high pollution days. These trends could have serious social, economic, and environmental consequences unless we find a way to use our resources more efficiently. Planning for the future is an important aspect of sustainability.
Brundtland Report
Common use of the term "sustainability" began in 1987 with the publication of the World Commission on Environment and Development report, Our Common Future. Also known as the Brundtland Report, this document defined sustainable development as "Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."
Benefits to Prioritizing Sustainability
Locally, sustainability is important to ensure the social, environmental and economic systems that make up our community are providing a healthy, productive and meaningful life for residents and visitors alike.
There are many benefits to prioritizing sustainability including fostering a culture of innovation and creativity; staying ahead of new environmental laws; strengthening reputation, increasing loyalty and improving stakeholder relations; retaining employees and increasing productivity; and increasing meaningful citizen participation.
Comprehensive Inventory
The Town of Paradise Valley has developed a comprehensive inventory of current policies, ordinances, and programs that support the Town’s commitment to sustainability. The inventory revealed the Town already has many sustainable measures in place, including a hybrid vehicle fleet, audio/video conferencing, crime prevention classes and two "green" fire stations.
Alternate Energy Sources
In addition, the Town is exploring alternate energy sources to power the Town Hall campus. This demonstrates the Town’s commitment to the environmental, economic, and social stewardship of Town operations and the Paradise Valley community.
Additional Information
If you are interested in learning more about the Town’s sustainability efforts, please contact Senior Planner Paul Michaud at 480-348-3574.
If you would like to learn more about what your carbon impacts are on the environment, you can try out the carbon calculator.