“Ideas to Action” is the theme for the second Summit on Vermont’s Climate Economy, to be held at Vermont Technical College in Randolph on February 22, 2016. Anyone interested in the goal of reducing carbon emissions while stimulating economic development opportunities in Vermont is encouraged to attend. Participants will review a platform of actions towards this goal that are being developed by the Vermont Climate Change Economy Council (VCCEC). Breakout groups that day will consider strategies for implementation and the partnerships that will be needed to move them forward.
The Vermont Council on Rural Development (VCRD) is producing this event to bring together innovative business, non‐profit, and community leaders, elected officials, public policy advocates, students, and interested residents to advance this platform into action.
“We are leading this Climate Economy Initiative with the premise that confronting climate change through innovative economic development can be a competitive strategy,” explains VCRD Executive Director Paul Costello. “One that will build national reputation, create jobs, and attract youth and entrepreneurism.”
VCRD hosted the “Creating Prosperity and Opportunity Confronting Climate Change Summit” earlier this year to launch the initiative, founded the VCCEC, and gathered input at three statewide public forums this fall. The VCCEC — composed of leaders in business, economic development and public policy — serves as a non-partisan center point for the development of a pro-active public policy around this central issue.
More information on the Vermont Climate Economy Initiative and the Summit can be found through VCRD’s website at www.vtrural.org or by calling 802-223-6091. Registration will open after January 1, 2016.
VCRD is a non‐profit organization charged by the federal farm bill to act as a neutral convener at both the local and policy level supporting the progress of Vermont communities.