Environmental sustainability is something that we should all be striving for. This is when the planet is able to continue producing clean air and water, fertile soil to grow plants, and support human and animal life. Right now we are not in a state of sustainability. If we continue to live as we are right now one day the planet might be without these necessities. Whether you are working for a biosolids application firm trying to come up with alternative energy sources or are just trying to get to work every day you are likely contributing to the sustainability of the Earth. Here are some initiatives that are starting up in Arizona to help this issue and some more about what we can do to help.

There are four things that scientists say that we can do to increase the sustainability of the planet: reduce our dependence on heavy metals and fossil fuels, reduce the use of synthetic chemicals, limit the destruction of natural resources, and make sure that everyone on the planet has access to basic supplies and resources. While you may not believe that by working in an x-ray protection clinic or as a storeowner you can do much to affect change with these issues, there are actually many things that you can do.

For the world as a whole to reduce their dependence on things like fossil fuels and synthetic chemicals it's going to take billions of individuals to decide that they can live without certain things. If all of the people living within the city of Phoenix were to decide to not use bottled water, drive their cars less, eat organic food products, and switch to some more environmentally friendly manufacturers you'd likely be shocked at what a huge difference it would make. You could switch to an on demand hot water heater to reduce the energy used in your home or form a carpooling network with others in your office to start and build from there.

The City of Phoenix has a sustainability program in place called "Living Like it Matters." There are more than eighty separate initiatives in place that include supporting green building projects, improving the parklands, taking action on climate change, and improving the air quality through transportation initiatives. If you're interested in making a change in your community than you should check out and support plans to upgrade the city's septic tank pump trucks or to create more open space within the downtown area.

There are also many other programs throughout Arizona and the rest of the world that could use your support and time. Some projects at places like the University of Arizona get a research and development tax credit or government grants but usually need additional financial support to really see their vision through to the end. If you are unable to offer money, you might even be able to volunteer within your community or throughout the world.