Sustainable living is an approach to social and economic activities for all societies, rich or poor, which is compatible with the preservation of the environment (Saburo Kato). Sustainability is finding, balance and harmony with nature, economic viability, social justice, ecological soundness and humaneness, without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Education

“Earth Plunge” is a one- or two-day experiential learning program that raises awareness of environmental issues in Colorado Springs. The class is offered to teachers (for credit through D11), students, youth groups and churches. Participants visit environmental hotspots (i.e. Drake Power Plant) as well as examples of Earth-friendly solutions (i.e. solar arrays, community gardens, biodiesel vehicles). They get to see how the issues of resource consumption, energy, water, food production and transportation affect both children and adults. The experience involves all modes of transportation, including walking, biking, mass transit and carpooling. For more information, email sustain@ppjpc.org.

Community Organizing

The Green Cities Coalitionwas born in 2008 from the J&P’s Sustainable Living Working Group. With about 400 organizations, businesses and individuals now in the coalition, the group’s purpose continues to be promoting ecologically, economically and socially healthy cities in El Paso County - for the benefit of present and future residents of the Pikes Peak region. We envision healthy, equitable and sustainable communities, both human and natural. GCC members are developing initiatives in many areas that impact the sustainability of the region. For more information, emailsustain@ppjpc.org.

The J&P is launching a new Green Dream project to create a demonstration center exploring how people can survive and sustain themselves in the urban environment – for the duration of this century and beyond. We actually have the technology and expertise, they’re just not getting the needed attention and funding as our country clings to its extravagant, consumptive past.

Got land? We need it – donate it to us, sell it to us, lease it or loan it. Got professional skills – legal, financial, planning, technical? Volunteer some time as a Green Dream Guru. Want to employ hundreds of people in urban farming, biofuel production, construction, transportation and renewable energy? Bring your capital and business expertise to our table. For more information about how you can make a difference, contact sustain@ppjpc.org.