Ensuring the FutureGreen Sarasota

One of the most exciting aspects of life in Venice and the surrounding communities is the commitment that Sarasota County has to creating a "green" and "sustainable" environment.  The preservation of natural resources, the safeguarding of our water, air and quality of life are enhanced by this area's commitment to progressive and very smart scientific concepts .

In addition to its practical tasks at hand, each agency in the County has also articulated a mission that incorporates a commitment to the environment.  The thousands of ponds, rivers, lakes and natural preserves in this area, sets us apart.  The protection of those resources ensures  the continuity and quality of life for area residents... human, bird, animal and fish.

What is sustainability? In the realm of ecology, it is defined as "a means of configuring civilization and human activity so that society, its members and its economies are able to meet their needs and express their greatest potential in the present, while preserving biodiversity and natural ecosystems, planning and acting for the ability to maintain these ideals in the very long term.  It's about protecting our natural resources, our water quality and ensuring our quality of life.

The "Rain Barrel Harvesting Program" educates the public on the benefits of gathering rainwater, and provides the rain barrels and classes in using them.  Harvesting rain water can reduce your use of potable water and save you money.  Collecting rain water recharges the groundwater and reduces polluting run-off.  The gathered rainwater can be used for water on lawns and gardens.

Low Impact Design is a new method of dealing with rainwater and runoff.  It is a mixture of engineering, architecture and landscaping innovations.  Sarasota County is committed to Low Impact Design, and sustainability.  The use of alternative fuels, the promotion of local agriculture, all of these initiatives are on the minds of the Sarasota County Commissioners and the County agencies.

These two initiatives are just the tip of the iceberg.  We are fortunate to reside in a county that recognizes the importance of a commitment to "Green".

Read about the action plans in the area of:

• Environmental conservation
• Water conservation
• Waste reduction
• Energy reduction
• Transportation
• Facilities/construction
• Community design and development