Sarasota Livin'

I few weeks ago Rod Thomson from the SHT said that Sarasota needs to determine what "sustainability" really means. This is a very valid question.

I think we are getting close to some answers..

Urbanicity has an article on "Creating a toolkit for sustainability in cities" that gives us some definition / answers.

But even more important on Monday the SHT had a great article on something that Sarasota County is working on -- this is great --

Sustainability study is goal for institute

SARASOTA COUNTY -- Two colleges say they will join forces to build a research institute at Fruitville Road's Celery Fields, marking a major step in the county's bid to become a hotbed for smart-growth industries.

The Florida Institute for Integrative Land Use, proposed by New College and the University of Florida, will make Sarasota County "the center of the universe" in the emerging field of sustainability, said former state Sen. Bob Johnson, chairman of New College's board.

The proposed institute will study the best ways to manage development while protecting the environment and will spawn "a visionary theory on how to deal with the future of Florida," Johnson said.

Another cool thing happening here:

Feb. 22, 2006: Natural Capitalism: Save the date for this half-day seminar with renowned Rocky Mountain Institute. The Institute says," Natural Capitalism describes a future in which business and environmental interests increasingly overlap, and in which busineses can better satisfy their customers' needs, increase profits, and help solve environmental problems all at the same time."

The seminar is sponsored by the Economic Development Corporaiton of Sarasota County and the Florida West Coast Resource Conservation and Development Council. Cost is $65 and includes RMI;s book, "Natural Capitalism."

Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2006, 8:30 am to 12:30 pm, at Manatee Community College's Center for Innovation and Technology in Lakewood Ranch. Register by emailing Ronnie Meurs at rmeurs@edcsarasotacounty.com