Define ‘Sustainability’

There is often confusion by some people as to what “sustainability” means. Once, a few years ago, a local politician had asked me to define sustainability.

To be honest, I had a hard time articulating a definition. Environmentalists approach the topic broadly, as it encompasses many aspects of what it means to be a good steward of our natural resources.

When I think of sustainability I think of Melissa Everett and her work at Sustainable Hudson Valley. Her approach is big picture, and involves the much-needed task of mobilizing multiple efforts into a single purpose.

When I think of sustainability I also think of buying local foods, shopping locally and buying local goods and services. I also think of Community Supported Agriculture, local farmers, vineyards, and such.

This past week, though, I think I’ve found a clear, over-arching definition of the word. It is from a statement by Emilie Hauser to the planning board of Kingston in regard to the proposed CVS development on Washington Avenue. This is how she puts it:

“Sustainable communities direct their development for most efficient resource use and high quality of life. Sustainable development meets today’s needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs.  There is a huge need for all our towns and lives to be more sustainable.  To do everything possible to cut down on green house gases.  We must consider in all our decisions, in government, in personal lives, in our work lives, how we can make our communities more sustainable, and how we can mitigate and adapt to climate change. Everything we consider should be viewed from that lens.”

Bravo.

— Arthur Zaczkiewicz

Benefit Concert Draws People In

The Pat Metheny Duo concert, presented by KingstonCitizens.org to benefit the Kingston Land Trust and the Community Garden initiative, featuring Pat Metheny and Ward 9’s own Larry Grenadier at the Coach House Players last night was simply awe inspiring.

During opening remarks, Mayor James Sottile spoke of the importance of community work, and how “amazing it is to have a world-class” performance right here in Kingston, in an intimate setting with friends and neighbors. I couldn’t agree more.

So, kudos, hugs, kisses, bouquets and more to Rebecca Martin for booking the artists, marketing the event and filling the room with people (it was sold out) and filling it with love. Awesome.

And thanks to fellow Kingston Land Trust board members such as Steve and Julie Noble, John Garasche, Hugh Cummings (how cool was that display garden he created?), Bill Berardi and Deborah Cohen. And big thanks to: Lynda O’Reilly for creating one incredible silent auction; to Mark Greene for his designs; to Jen McKinley-Rakov for feeding the band; to Gabe and Kathy/Laura and Jose from Monkey Joe for serving the best coffee in town; and to Bob and the staff at the Coach House for being gracious hosts; among many others.

And thanks to the 99 people who filled the room, who came out to help water the seeds of something that will begin to grow this year. As Rebecca likes to say: Watch Us Grow.

And with deepest sincerity, thank you Pat and Larry for being so giving of your time, energy and love. You helped bring a city closer together.

— Arthur Zaczkiewicz