Classes: Overview and Agendas*
Prior Workshop Series (2007): Toward a
Sustainable Marin
February 3 - March 24, 2007
The 2007 class summaries and agendas are posted below.
February 3, 2007 - SUSTAINABILITY INTRO
This first class lays the foundation for understanding the concepts repeated throughout the rest of the program. The core principles and goals of sustainability are explained as well as how these goals fit into “the web of life.” Various sustainability models and metrics are presented, with “Think Globally, Act Locally” explained and examined. The personal and community choices needed to support such sustainability are discussed, along with examples of how communities and businesses are implementing sustainability into their policies and programs.
Click here to view Feb. 3 class agenda. (PDF format - Adobe Reader required*)
February 10, 2007 - FOSSIL FUELS & CLIMATE CHANGE
Oil prices and conflicts over oil supplies continue as a preminent world issue, with the global climate paying the price for our dependence on fossil fuels. Today’s class focuses on the latest data concerning world supplies, the many harmful effects of fossil fuel use and its contribution to climate change. We also explore local community actions, as well as the personal, that can reduce these increasingly widespread environmental effects.
Click here to view Feb. 10 class agenda. (PDF format - Adobe Reader required*)
February 24, 2007 - CLEAN ENERGY RESOURCES
We discuss what can be done to help move Marin, and beyond, toward a more sustainable energy future by looking at the role energy conservation and renewable energy sources may play, and compare the pros and cons of each. We also explore how investment in renewable energy and clean transportation technologies can be a positive economic force in our communities.
Click here to view Feb. 24 class agenda. (PDF format - Adobe Reader required*)
March 3, 2007 - WATER RESOURCES
What are the best solutions for a sustainable, cost and energy efficient water supply for Marin that balances the human needs for water with the needs of the environment? We explore the issues surrounding desalination, increased water conservation, recycled water and the Russian River as solutions to these resource needs. We also explore how climate change may cause disruptions in the future to our traditionally depended-upon water sources.
Click here to view Mar. 3 class agenda. (PDF format - Adobe Reader required*)
March 10, 2007 – TOXICS & THE 3 R’S
Toxic substances are accumulating in our environment and our bodies at an alarming rate. We learn about the healthier choices we have as individuals and as communities that help keep our environment in a healthy state. We learn about initiatives and programs that are encouraging and supporting our community leaders to protect the populace. Our second main topic, that ties into the first, explores how a consumer-oriented lifestyle creates long-term challenges for our landfills. We review current landfill policies and processes, as well as examine potential solutions to some of the environmental issues landfills face.
Click here to view Mar. 10 class agenda. (PDF format - Adobe Reader required*)
March 17, 2007 - LAND USE & PLANNING
How do we balance the need for housing and the need for a thriving business base while respecting our total environment? We look at the history of land use patterns in Marin, and how sustainable land use practices are addressed in the Marin Countywide Plan. We learn how zoning designations influence our transportation and energy use, and look at the ways that affordable housing provides a positive environmental and societal effect. We also explore sustainable land use planning trends occurring at the state and regional levels.
Click here to view Mar. 17 class agenda. (PDF format - Adobe Reader required*)
March 24, 2007 – TRANSPORTATION
We review the historical development of Marin’s transportation corridors and examine the challenges to having more sustainable transportation systems in Marin. We learn about the roles of Marin’s major transportation agencies and how transportation dollars are spent and are planned to be spent. We also looked at the successes of current programs that improve our quality life by reducing fossil fuel emissions and traffic congestion.
Click here to view Mar. 24 class agenda. (PDF format - Adobe Reader required*)
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