Sustainability - An Introduction

Meeting today's needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.

Source: Brundtland Report 1987

Importance of Sustainability

We have entered a time where unprecedented pressures on the natural world limits our current way of life. Sustainability provides an opportunity to examine the function and practices of RPC and act towards eliminating negative impacts that we generate such as paper waste, CO2 emissions, and end use products (Bic pens, Styrofoam cups, etc.)

The Role of RPC

Local governments can set an example of relieving these pressures by reinventing our institutions to ensure that programs and policies provide necessary needs while minimizing negative influences that reach far into the future.

Implementing Sustainable Practices

Reinventing the RPC will require input and commitment from all staff members. Brainstorming sessions will be held so that individual departments can share ideas specific to their program and develop strategies to achieve a common goal. Successful implementation will make sustainability the easy choice for staff members and clients.

First Steps

What can your department do differently?
What can you do in your job?
What can you do personally?
How can the RPC help?

Themes to Address

• Efficient energy use
• Efficient water use
• Mobility
• Land use planning
• Purchasing sustainable products
• Reduce consumption
• Managing waste
• Whole cost accounting
• Educating about sustainability
• Providing fair compensation
• Reduce CO₂ emmissions
• Green building design
• Minimize toxins