Sustainable Development

The word sustainable is often used today in many contexts – including energy, community development, natural heritage systems and the use of natural resources. CCKT strongly supports the concept and goals of sustainability, as we all move forward into the future. So exactly what does sustainable mean?!

Canada adopted the following definition from the 1983 World Commission on Environment and Development: “Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”. Renewable energy can be sustained while the continued use of non-renewable resources such as, oil and gas, cannot be sustained. Well-managed forests can sustain an adequate supply of wood into the long term future. Healthy eco-systems, with abundant water, wetlands and forests, sustain wild animal populations and healthy diversity for both plants and animals.

Innovation, efficiency and change are a central part of achieving true sustainable development. CCKT advocates for and supports the conservation of water and the natural environment, and the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, integrating clean, renewable energy into homes, buildings and transportation. In addition, sustainability in community planning and new development involves innovative design and the wise use of the earth’s resources for new homes, buildings and related infrastructure. It means preserving prime farmland in the Greenbelt, and precious water resources and healthy natural heritage systems on the Oak Ridges Moraine – rivers, lakes, wetlands, forests, and meadows.

Future generations will say, “Thank you.”