“Sustainability” is a large concept, often difficult to grasp. Measuring it–knowing how sustainable our region is and whether or not its sustainability is improving–may be even harder to figure out. Lots of data is available, and still more can be gathered, but what data speaks to sustainability, how can we organize it in order to [...]
Entrepreneurs in Western North Carolina recognize that opportunities for a vibrant Green Economy are growing day by day. But in order for the region to harness the potential economic impact of these entrepreneurs, there is an immediate demand for comprehensive information about the region’s relevant assets. Though many assume this information is readily available, it’s [...]
WNC Water Resources: Sustainable or Not? November 9, 2009 Scientists at the National Climatic Data Center have projected a high probability of a return to drought conditions for our region. In addition, they have stated that future rainfall is more apt to occur in high volumes but in limited areas. The combination of those factors, [...]
Measuring Sustainability October 19, 2009 An important conversation on advances in sustainability measurement throughout the region and through BRSI’s own Sustainability Indicators Project (SIP).
Atmospheric Aerosols and Pollutants June 8, 2009 “How does air quality fare in Western North Carolina, in light of atmospheric aerosol loading and other atmospheric pollutants?” “What impact do atmospheric aerosols and pollutants have on the region’s ecology and economy, and on human health?” “What can be done to reduce atmospheric aerosols and pollutants, and [...]
Sustainability: Farms, Forests, and Land May 11, 2009 “How can we make our farms, forests, and land more sustainable?” “What is the relationship between our natural environment and our urban communities?” “Which changes to the built environment have a negative impact on the ability of our land to produce, and how can we grow and [...]
Best Sustainability Practices March 30, 2009 “Which established practices would best help Western North Carolina become more sustainable, in terms of energy, the environment, and the economy?” “Are there cities at home and abroad with lessons to teach us, despite the unique characteristics of the people and the landscape of our region?” “Can models of [...]
Sustainability Indicators February 23, 2009 “What does sustainability look like?” “How can we know what we need to do to achieve it?” “What will it look like when we get there, and how will we recognize it?”
Green Economy/Green Jobs December 1, 2008 “What are the current and emerging Green Economy job and entrepreneurial opportunities in our region?” “What will a Green Economy innovation network look like here?” “What must Western North Carolina do now to jumpstart its Green Economy?”
Clean, Renewable Energy October 27, 2008 “Is clean, renewable energy ready for prime time?” “Why not build another nuclear power plant in Western North Carolina?” “What keeps us from moving forward with clean, renewable energy more aggressively?”
