Description:
“We’ve become a culture that specializes in using data rather than wisdom when assessing the value of nature. When we define our landscape as an economic enterprise, it’s no longer seen with wonder; instead, it’s analyzed like any other business opportunity.”
The economy is slowing down and budgets are being tightened today. Open space funding is under threat. This is due to the fact that the general public and local officials believe that open space is a luxury they can no longer afford.
They see it as a convenience, something enjoyable to have. However, the same people understand that infrastructure is a necessity rather than a luxury; something that communities require, not simply something desirable…
We consider infrastructure to be a major public investment rather than something we pay for after spending all of our money. Similarly, officials realize that infrastructure must be maintained and updated on a continual basis. It’s not something you buy and then forget about. Finally, we all know that infrastructure must be built as a whole, not as separate components.
“If you think education is expensive, try ignorance,” a popular bumper sticker suggests. Imagine the future costs for clean air, water, and healthy natural systems if we don’t invest in green infrastructure today if you believe green space to be pricey.
Type:
Publication