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This Sprawl is our Sprawl! Can We Walk the Talk?
We tend to pin the blame for sprawl on developers, politicians, planners - anyone but
ourselves. In fact, though development patterns are influenced by government policy and
business, they are also the product of individual choices: where we choose to live, how
far and how often we travel, how we get from point a to point b. We make choices every day
that can support our call for healthy communities, thriving rural areas, and unspoiled
wilderness. Here are some practical strategies for people who would like to combat sprawl
with actions as well as words:
- Rent Smart, Buy Smart! Smart Growth isn't just about development; it's about
where we choose to live. The next time you move, you may want to consider how your choices
as a consumer can affect sprawl. By choosing to live in a home that is central to your
work and daily needs, and is accessible to public transit, you make a direct investment in
Smart Growth. Fringe development may offer more square footage for your dollar, but
quality of life can't be measured in square feet! By reducing our reliance on automobiles
and living in central, sustainable neighborhoods, we send a clear anti-sprawl message by
demonstrating that we value community, public space, and open country.
- Drive Responsibly, Drive Less! Dependence on the automobile and sprawl go hand in
hand. Those who want to do something about sprawl can take concrete action on a daily
basis by becoming aware of their travel patterns and choosing to drive less. Some
alternatives include walking, bicycling, using public transit, consolidating automobile
trips, owning one, fuel-efficient
vehicle per family, and carpooling. Patronizing local businesses will also reduce the
amount of time spent driving while strengthening the fabric of your community.
- Think Ahead! A booming population, fractured communities, and unsustainable
levels of consumption have all contributed to what we now call sprawl. Consider limiting
your family size. Support the empowerment and education of women here and abroad so they
have fertility choices. Combat the isolation of children, the elderly, the poor, and the
disabled by ensuring that your community offers equal access to goods and services for
those who cannot or choose not to drive. If the American Dream is to be enjoyed by
generations to come, it must be redefined on a global level. The world's population stands
at six billion and counting, and every one of those people deserves a decent future. This
is jeopardized by the rapid resource consumption and waste that come with sprawling
development patterns. With responsible stewardship, we can have healthy communities and a
living planet.
- Get Involved! Your voice counts. Some ideas:
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