EDUCATION AND ADVOCACY

WATER, OPEN SPACE, HEALTHY FORESTS, ENERGY & AIR 

OBJECTIVES

The Education and Advocacy Committee is tasked with identifying issues that would benefit from the support of Arizona Forward.  The committee will secure key subject-matter experts to present on topics that impact our natural and built environment. To better address the interests of our members in both education and advocacy, we will operate on two levels. First, for regular monthly meetings, the committee will bring in speakers on environmental issues important to our State.  Our intent is that speakers will make us aware of issues that would benefit from advocacy and support from Arizona Forward members like you. Second, the committee will decide whether to take positions, or take on projects based on the issues presented.

PRINCIPLES

• Long-range water planning should promote sound water management policies and must be an integral part of state, regional and local planning efforts that are routinely updated to increase sustainability. 
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• Forest and watershed management should be seen as a critical statewide issue tied to our health, environment, water supplies, economy, and quality of life.
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• Open space planning should encourage natural resource sustainability through stewardship, conservation and habitat restoration that fosters a balance between environmental quality and economic prosperity. 
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• Improved efficiency and increased use of renewable energy technologies should encourage energy conservation and sustainable home/work environments, reduce reliance on carbon-emitting energy sources and foster sustainable approaches for urban and rural energy delivery systems.  
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• Air quality measures should be a key factor in planning decisions and help reduce carbon emissions, dust and ozone levels through alternative fuel vehicles, conservation measures, clean burning fuels and other strategies. 
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• Arizona Forward mobilizes the state's business leaders and policymakers to leverage their collective power to influence how we best grow our communities, stimulate our economy and enhance our environment.