The Sustainable Neighborhood Network was developed
by the City of Lakewood in 2013 as a way to provide assistance to residents who
are interested in making their communities more sustainable. The program
emphasizes citizen action and collaboration to reduce a neighborhood’s
ecological footprint and enhance livability.
Neighborhoods set goals related to sustainability
and earn points by achieving those goals. When enough credits are earned, a
neighborhood may be designated as a “Participating Sustainable Neighborhood” or
an “Outstanding Sustainable Neighborhood”.
The program addresses all aspects of sustainability
and is committed to improving the social and economic, as well as the
ecological viability of a neighborhood. All proposed goals are categorized as energy,
water, air, land, or people-oriented. Goals are achieved through the
implementation of projects, such as workshops, special events, or neighborhood
resources. Examples of past projects include community gardens, literacy
programs, and recycling initiatives.
https://sustainableneighborhoodnetwork.org/images/default-source/default-album/kids-recycling.jpg?sfvrsn=5 |
The neighborhoods of Eiber and Belbar became the
first to receive sustainability certification. An additional three Lakewood
neighborhoods have also become certified. The city of Denver has also joined
the program and three Denver neighborhoods have since become certified.
The Sustainable Neighborhood Network is an example of sustainability on a very local scale. While the City provides some guidance, there is freedom and flexibility for citizens to decide what sustainability means to them. While participating neighborhoods operate under the same guidelines, each neighborhood has its own unique vision of sustainability which reflects the individuality of the community.
Besides the obvious benefits of increased sustainability and community involvement, neighborhoods receive recognition from the City and custom signage.
Check out the video below to learn more about the Sustainable Neighborhood Network:
The Sustainable Neighborhood Network is an example of sustainability on a very local scale. While the City provides some guidance, there is freedom and flexibility for citizens to decide what sustainability means to them. While participating neighborhoods operate under the same guidelines, each neighborhood has its own unique vision of sustainability which reflects the individuality of the community.
Besides the obvious benefits of increased sustainability and community involvement, neighborhoods receive recognition from the City and custom signage.
Check out the video below to learn more about the Sustainable Neighborhood Network:
Young Americans partnership with the City of Lakewood highlights the value both organizations place on youth ideas and development. For communities to be successful in the future, today’s youth need to know they have an important role to play.
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