Bravo Grand Rapids, Mayor Heartwell!

The Grand Rapids Press recently printed an article highlighting Mayor Heartwell's efforts to employ the "triple bottom line" within all of the city's practices. It's no secret that Grand Rapids has become a focal point not only in the United States but worldwide with regards to L.E.E.D certified construction and sustainability practices, and this is another great example of that leadership. It's important to note Mayor Heartwell's comment: "There's a tendency in an economy like this to duck and cover, and that's the attitude I fear most. We've made progress, and I'd hate to see that stall out because of fear". This illustrates the commitment on the part of the Mayor to ensure that these practices remain standard, and are not viewed as experimental or risky. This speaks to the broader concept of a new environmental ethic in the mind of the general public and our elected officials. If we, as a State and a nation, are to weather these tough times and position ourselves for a productive and progressive future, the values of sustainability must become engrained...they must become our way of life to ensure our quality of life.

Mayor Heartwell and the city of Grand Rapids should be commended for leading this effort to promote this necessary environmental ethic. Please read the article here.