Agyeman: Chapter 4 "Just Sustainability in Practice"

I really enjoyed this chapter i fully understand Agyeman's frustration when he says that in looking and and researching the sustainable practices of top ten company's the results are shockingly minimal. I definitely agree and understand that only a handful of sustainable practice examples is not enough to change the world. Although overall i found this chapter to be very positive and inspirational. The thing that made me the happiest was the different approaches that people are taking towards sustainability. I strongly believe that one of the keys to sustainability is not excepting something for the way it is just because we are used to it. Every daily action should at some point be re-examined and thought of in a different light, this is where sustainable practice can truely prosper.

Some of my favorite case studies included those reharding land-use planning. I really enjoyed those stories where socio-economic barriers were broken and the community worked as one force to succeed. For inctance, the urban-ecology in Oakland, CA where its community design program provides planning and design services to low-income urban neighborhoods to assist them with community development. The Urban Ecology's Sustainable Cities Program approaches municipal governments and works with community groups to promote more sustainable development patterns. There are many other fantastic and innovative case studies throughout this chapter, others dealing with such issues as solid waste management, toxic chemical use, residential energy use, and transprotation planning.

Once again the only critique one can make regarding the material in this chapter is that there is not enough examples of such sustainable actions, it would be amaxing if there were examples of all communities in all states that show sustainable practices. Although we know that the ideas of community sustainability are difficult for many to accept and implement. The best way to adapt sustainable practices is by seeeing companies who are actually taking the actions and succeeding. This success can help to motivate others to become sustainable as well, in a progressive and positive manner.