ABSTRACT

With a foreword written by Senator Bernie Sanders

What is a durable economy? It is one that not only survives but thrives. How is it created, and what does it take to sustain over time? Sustainable Communities provides insight and answers to these questions.

Citing Burlington, Vermont's remarkable rise to award-winning status, this book explores the balance of community planning, social enterprise development, energy and environment, food systems and cultural well-being. Aimed at policymakers, development practitioners, students, and citizens, this book describes which and how multiple influences facilitate the creation of a local, durable and truly sustainable economy. The authors hope to inspire others by sharing this story of what can be done in the name of community economic development.

chapter 1|27 pages

The quest for a durable local economy

How Can Economic Durability and Community Resiliency Be Encouraged?

chapter 2|28 pages

Localize and Socialize

How Does Fostering Locally-focused and Socially Responsible Businesses Help Create a Durable Economy?

chapter 3|30 pages

Welcome One, Welcome All: Economic Inclusiveness

How Are All – Women, Minorities, New Arrivals, Disadvantaged, and Others – Integrated into the Economic and Social Fabric of the Community?

chapter 4|41 pages

Crunch and Funk: Cultural Vibrancy

How Is a Culturally Vibrant Community Created where People Want to Live, Work, Play and Visit?

chapter 5|22 pages

I'm OK, You're OK: Social Well-being

How Are Civic-minded Organizations Supported for Fostering Social Well-being?

chapter 6|29 pages

Glowing and Growing: Energy and Environment

How Is Ecological Balance Maintained, and Efficient Energy Sources Provided?

chapter 7|24 pages

Tasting as Good as It Looks: Local Food System Sustainability

How Is a Food System Sustainability Maintained in the Context of Community and Economic Development?

chapter 8|49 pages

Summing Up

Lessons Learned and Other Insights