The Fort Collins commitment to sustainability

I have always been impressed by Fort Collins' commitment to sustainability and the environment, but after writing this blog for over four months, my respect for Fort Collins and the community has grown immensely.

In the City of Fort Collins Environmental Policy it is stated that "The City of Fort Collins is committed to conducting its operations in a manner that is environmentally responsible and reflective of the community's strong commitment to the environment. The City will provide community leadership by reducing its environmental impact while benefiting citizens, the economy and society."

Here are some highlights of the City's efforts to move Fort Collins towards sustainability:

• 42 Natural Areas  
• Over 280 miles of bike lanes
• May 2012 — Ranked 11th in Bicycle Magazine for America's Top 50 Bike-Friendly Cities
• "Fort Collins’ community carbon footprint is 14.7% lower than it was in 2005, despite population growth of 13.5% in the same time period and a local sales & tax use increase of 6.7% from 2005 to 2009" — City of Fort Collins Climate Protection
• Over 60 programs that help residents reduce their environmental impact

But this commitment to sustainability goes far past the City's involvement, Fort Collins businesses and residents alike are forging the way for a sustainable future, as exemplified in previous posts. 

I am proud to be a Fort Collins resident, to live in a city and within a community that is conscious of the impacts we make and working to minimize those impacts. 

Are you?