It seems that proactive leaders in this community are proving that the dynamics of a free-market economy and sustainable development can work synergistically in the new paradigm in which being “green” means being environmentally responsible while creating economic opportunity. In “Seeing Green: Visions of a Sustainable Local Economy” [April 18 Xpress], the concept of sustainability was explored. The attempt to define what this buzzword encompasses is important, as it is being flouted loosely these days.
In my opinion, energy is the most fundamental component of sustainability, as it is what drives all systems. To call a system that is being powered by fossil-fuel combustion or nuclear power “sustainable” is a gross misnomer. A shift towards renewable energy sources needs to be embraced as the major force, if our hope is for a truly sustainable future. Woodfin showed bold leadership when they denied the land-use permit for the proposed oil-burning peak-power plant and decided to purchase their municipal power through NC Green Power. The political atmosphere is becoming more supportive of renewable energy, but ultimately it is going to [depend on] the choices we all make as consumers.
Asheville has a tremendous opportunity to manifest the vision of becoming a leader in sustainable development. In the article, Charles Leahy [was said to think] that “creating green-tech programs at local colleges would help lay the groundwork.” A-B Tech has taken the lead on this and is in the process of developing a Center for Sustainability Technologies. A steering committee has envisioned a set of goals that embody the concept of sustainability and will help foster the opportunities in this region. As they say, shift happens! Embrace it at whatever level you are able to give it power! (Preferably solar, wind or hydro power!)
— Erika Schneider
Outreach Coordinator
Sundance Power Systems, Inc.
Mars Hill
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