September 15, 2007
Reflections on Rocky Anderson's Keynote
I attended the Rocky Anderson keynote at the Green Building Expo this week. In his presentation, Mayor Anderson presented evidence supporting the case that global warming is caused by human activity. For me, this is no longer in question, but likely there are still those who need convincing. The images of melting ice caps and disappearing glaciers, as well as of Tuvaluan homes surrounded by the ocean at high tide were good reminders, at any rate.The mayor also reviewed the programs that he and his team developed to make Salt Lake City more energy efficient and sustainable. His overall program is comprehensive, and he joked that it covers "everything from dog waste to nuclear waste."
Our own Mayor Michael Coleman has made sustainability a priority in his administration. Those efforts fall under the banner of the mayor's Get Green Columbus initiative. It takes a lot of guts to lead the way in something like this - you can't win. Those who think it isn't necessary are critical, of course, and those who think you should be doing more can be even more critical.
We're fortunate to have a mayor who is making an attempt to address these important issues, even if it seems like it's too little too late. (See, I'm critical too!) Organizations like MORPC have a role to play. And pockets of people all over the city and region are trying to make a difference, and they need your help. Choose a group whose message you resonate with, and lend a hand!
For another take on the Green Building Expo, check out Jason's post here.
Labels: events, leadership, sustainability
