What is Sustainable Development?

Long Island developed without adequate planning, leaving an aftermath of suburban sprawl, fragmented transportation systems, depleting natural resources, segregated neighborhoods and schools, and deteriorating downtowns. Attempts were made to address these problems individually, without regard to the interrelationship of the issues. As a result, yesterday’s “solutions” became the root of today’s problems.

Sustainable Development is the answer to these accumulated problems. Sustainable Development is a new way of thinking, moving from problem solving that addresses one issue at a time to solutions derived from integrative decision making. This approach, incorporating ecological integrity, economic stability and social equity, isn't idealistic rhetoric. Across the nation, businesses, municipalities and communities are implementing practical and profitable sustainable solutions.

Who is Sustainable Long Island?

Sustainable Long Island is the organization to rethink, rebuild and renew the precious island that serves as home to nearly three million people. We work with communities and municipal leaders to promote economic development that safeguards the environment and increases opportunity for every Long Islander, now and for generations to come.

Sustainable Long Island provides access to information and resources that equip Long Islanders with the tools necessary to advance sustainable development. Through Sustainable Long Island's education workshops, forums and conferences, Long Islanders are introduced to the importance of identifying integrated solutions to improve quality of life and ensure that Long Island continues to be a great place to work, live and play.

For more information, visit our home page and our programs section.