Arizona's desert communities face sustainability challenges that are truly unique. Fast-paced population growth, limited financial resources, and adequate water and energy for the future, require our communities to implement immediate, yet long-term, sustainable policies and practices. Creating sustainable desert communities calls for leadership, investment, collaboration, and active participation across all sectors. Local government, in particular, is critical to establishing effective policy and investments that greatly influence the growth and pace of sustainability in our region.
To help meet the growing demand for solid sustainability information, assistance, and vision, the Valley cities, tribes, and Maricopa County, in partnership with the ASU Global Institute of Sustainability (GIOS), established the Sustainable Cities Network (SCN).
Comprised of local policy leaders and practitioners, SCN provides the perfect venue for these professionals to share sustainability challenges, opportunities, and best practices. By building strong links between municipal professionals and university researchers, SCN brings sustainability to the forefront of city operations and policy, while at the same time nurturing the local cadre of sustainability experts and practitioners. Through this cohesive and active group, SCN will guide the Valley to the forefront of national leadership in sustainability.