There is much that the Town of Blacksburg can do to ensure that we are good stewards of our environment and use our resources in a way that meets not only our needs but also the needs of future generations, including:

• Incorporating “smart growth” design principles—such as promoting compact, mixed-use development and conserving green and open spaces—in land-use decisions
• Improving access to public and alternative transportation
• Building on the success of the downtown recycling pilot program
• Making good on Blacksburg’s Cool Cities status under the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement
• Leading by example with low-impact, energy-efficient building practices
• Supporting the local foods movement through the Blacksburg Farmers Market and community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs
• Restoring Stroubles Creek and preserving the Tom’s Creek Basin
• Empowering citizens to make environmentally conscious decisions and leveraging the talents, creativity, and initiative of young people

Michael would like to hear your suggestions for a creating a more sustainable Blacksburg. Share your ideas in the comment box below, on his Facebook page, or in a message to the campaign.