The Sustainable Square Mile, Blacks in Green
The “Sustainable Square Mile Handbook,” developed in collaboration between Blacks in Green (BIG) and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), serves as a comprehensive manual for establishing eco-friendly urban neighborhoods. The handbook outlines eight core principles of green-village building, addressing key aspects such as community engagement, economic resilience, and environmental sustainability. It offers detailed guidance on promoting conservation lifestyles that emphasize a personal connection to the land and a renewed cultural history of stewardship. By implementing these principles, the handbook aims to reverse the adverse effects of pollution and climate change, particularly in communities of color and low-income neighborhoods. It advocates for walkable neighborhoods with locally-owned businesses and properties, ensuring economic benefits circulate within the community. The handbook also includes practical steps and case studies to help residents and community leaders implement these sustainable practices. Overall, it aspires to foster a balanced and thriving urban ecosystem where economic vitality, cultural heritage, and environmental health coexist harmoniously.