What is sustainability?

The U.S. National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 declared as its goal a national policy to “create and maintain conditions under which [humans] and nature can exist in productive harmony, and fulfill the social, economic and other requirements of present and future generations of Americans.”

Internationally the most widely quoted definition is the “Brundtland definition” from the 1987 Report of the World Commission on Environment and Development.  Here sustainability is defined as ”meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”

Source: http://www.epa.gov/sustainability/basicinfo.htm

The concept of sustainability is not new.  However, as the world is becoming increasingly more complex and intertwined, greater priority and urgency have been given to sustainable development.  The advantages of modern living and technology are not free from complications.  As populations grow, we are forced to deal with the consequences of higher levels of consumption and increased demands on resources – natural, human and social.  We can no longer afford to use resources in an inefficient or wasteful manner.  Addressing the reality of this global phenomenon requires local solutions and initiatives.

The Office of Sustainability

The City of West Palm Beach Office of Sustainability was created under the Department of Public Utilities in 2008.  Located in City Hall, the Office of Sustainability collaborates with various city agencies, nonprofit organizations, businesses and private citizens among other partners to enhance the viability of West Palm Beach as a modern model of healthy, environmentally progressive and ecologically sustainable, urban living. 

The City of West Palm Beach is commited to doing our part.  We encourage you to familiarize yourself with our Sustainability Plans throughout this website.