There are now 26 such sustainable communities in North Carolina, and they are proving their commitment to the environment, social equality, and sustainability.
Yet, as its population exceeds 10 million, and as the state continues to grow, the need for sustainable development and better waste management practices has never roared with more urgency. In urban areas like Raleigh and Charlotte and smaller communities such as Boone and Greensboro, North Carolina is walking the talk when it comes to creating sustainable communities for people and the nation.
What Do Sustainable Communities Mean
Sustainable communities seek an equilibrium of environmental well-being, economic well-being, waste management sand social well-being.
They aim to minimize ecological footprints and improve quality of life as well as inclusiveness. These communities emphasize renewable energy, clean and sustainable forms of transportation, green building practices, and local economies while protecting and enhancing existing natural ecosystems.
Urban Initiatives
The state’s larger cities — like Raleigh and Charlotte that have more resources — are already incorporating these efforts into green infrastructure projects, public transit systems and energy-efficient building codes.
In fact, Raleigh has programs such as “Sustainable Raleigh” which entail efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increasing urban tree canopies and improving water quality. Likewise, Charlotte’s Envision Charlotte initiative aims to lower energy and water use in its downtown, creating a demonstration for smart, sustainable urban centers.
In urban communities, public transportation is a key factor for reducing carbon footprints. Charlotte’s light rail system, the LYNX Blue Line, has emerged as a sustainable and popular alternative to car-based commuting. And cities like Durham and Greensboro are widening bike lanes and greenways and urging residents to rely on more eco-friendly modes of transport.
Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
North Carolina has also emerged as a leader in renewable energy adoption, especially in the form of solar energy.
Solar energy is being used around the state by communities to cut their dependence on fossil fuels. In the town of Chapel Hill, for example, policies have been put in place to incentivize solar panel installation on residential and commercial buildings. Equally as impressive, the City of Asheville is also on a path to 100 percent renewable energy by 2030, which is a pretty bold move when it comes to sustainability.
Energy-efficient construction is also a staple of sustainable communities in the state. Programs such as North Carolina Green Built Homes offer guidelines and certifications for builders seeking to build energy-efficient, lower-impact housing. Similar initiatives not only have positive impacts on the environment, but help residents by driving down utility costs, further making housing affordable for the long term.
Sustainability in Small Towns and Rural Areas
In small town and rural they often focus on sustainability on saving natural resources and supporting local economy. Boone, in the Appalachian Mountains, has embraced sustainability from local food to renewable energy to conservation. Boone’s New River Conservancy goals are to protect waterways, allowing for clean water availability for future generations.
The progressive town of Greensboro is yet another small town taking a stand on sustainability. The town’s climate action plan outlines strategies to reduce emissions, make improvements in energy efficiency and expand the use of renewable energy. They also have a lot of community gardens and farmers’ markets that make it easier to get farm-fresh organic foods.
Involving the Community and the Public More
Education and Community Involvement is another very important thing for getting sustainable communities.
Organizations such as the North Carolina Sustainable Energy Association (NCSEA) and the Center of Environmental Farming Systems (CEFS) offer training and resources to help residents and local governments implement sustainable practices. North Carolina State University and Appalachian State University Schools and universities also have sustainability programs and research initiatives at the DSU that promote innovation in the field.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite major strides, North Carolina still has work to do as it scales sustainable practices across varied communities.
Problems, such as affordable housing, climate change, junk disposal services and income disparities, need holistic responses. Yet such challenges also offer openings for innovation. The state has much to offer: its rich agricultural history provides potential for expanding sustainable farming practices, whilst its burgeoning tech industry can contribute to advances in green technology.
The Path Forward
It takes the joint effort of governments, businesses and residents to build sustainable, resilient communities in North Carolina.
Policies at the statewide level, such as the Clean Energy Plan, which sets a goal of decreasing greenhouse gas emissions by 70% by 2030, help us move closer to the reality of sustainability. Local governments are key to advancing land-use planning and incentivizing green development as well.
From the fully local educational community on the coast, to the buzzing wine scene up top and even the southern corner where textile meets food and agriculture, North Carolina’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in thriving communities seeking environmental protection, social equity, and economic resilience.
While the state sits at 500,000 people in the 2020 Census Producing even less than 100 tons of waste today, sustainable development will play a critical role in maintaining the Legacy for current and future generations. With creativity, education, and community-led initiatives, North Carolina is leading by example when it comes to living sustainably in the 21st century.
