Sustainable Development as defined by Congress

Sustainable and sustainability have become overused words in our everyday political forum. If the politicians would only mean what they say, we could achieve sustainable communities in most every market. We have achieved successes in the past and will do so again in spite of the regulatory environment.

‘‘Livable Communities Act of 2009’’ defines SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT.—The term ‘‘sustainable development’’ means a pattern of resource use designed to create livable communities by:

(A) providing a variety of safe and reliable transportation choices;

(B) providing affordable, energy-efficient, and location-efficient housing choices for people of all income levels, ages, races, and ethnicity;

(C) supporting, revitalizing, and encouraging the growth of communities and maximizing the cost effectiveness of existing infrastructure;

(D) promoting economic development and economic competitiveness;

(E) preserving the environment and natural resources;

(F) protecting agricultural land, rural land, and green spaces; and

(G) supporting public health and improving the quality of life for residents of and workers in a community.

I have defined sustainable development in previous posts with a focus on environmental, social, and economic factors. Please take note that Congress defines a sustainable development the same as a livable community. Their definition of a sustainable community goes further by adding:

1. provide transportation alternative choices
2. provide energy efficient housing
3. provide location-efficient housing
4. maximize the use of existing infrastructure
5. protect certain land from development