ITHACA, N.Y. — How do we meet the goals of human development today without sacrificing the needs of the economy, society, and nature tomorrow? As the organizing principle behind this delicate balancing act, sustainable development ties together concern for the carrying capacity of nature with the social, political, and economic challenges faced by humanity. Despite the long-term discussion of sustainable development principles, most political leaders have felt compelled to prioritize economic growth models over more sustainable alternatives.
In this evening event hosted by the Environmental Management Council, a group of area experts will bring the discussion home to Tompkins County and share their thoughts on sustainable community development.
Date: Thursday, October 17, Tompkins County Public Library, Borg-Warner Room | Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
David West, TC Department of Planning and Sustainability, on how here we build and how we shape new development at the neighborhood and regional scale is at least as important as how we build individual buildings.
Brent Katzman, Warren Real Estate, on the challenge of meeting green development goals without exacerbating the already high cost of housing.
Nick Goldsmith, City and Town of Ithaca, on the goals of the City’s Green New Deal and what we can expect moving forward in 2020.
Noah Demarest, STREAM Collaborative, on designing for longevity, recent projects, and successes and failures in the pursuit of sustainable development in Ithaca.
Lauren Gabuzzi, Downtown Ithaca Alliance, on how creating and incorporating transportation requirements in building code can play a substantial role in developing environmentally friendly cities.
George Franz, Associate Professor, City and Regional Planning, Cornell University, on the new “Sponge City” initiative in China.
Refreshments* & Networking at 7 p.m.
*Guests are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles, cups, or mugs..