their potential in ways that positivelyadvance both society and theenvironment. In short, MontgomeryCounty must become a moresustainable place for both residentsand visitors to ensure an economiclivelihood and high standard of living for future generations-thebiggest risk is not taking risks.For Food Production, MontgomeryCounty contains 93,000-acreAgricultural Reserve with an averagefarm size of 121 acres, yet the vastmajority of food consumed in thecounty is imported from areasoutside the County and State,resulting in unnecessary transportcosts and fossil fuel use. TheAgricultural Reserve is a vitaleconomic, cultural, and ecologicalresource that can be supported bylocal consumers if linkages betweenthe two are made stronger. Citizenscould consume fresh, locally grownfoods that support a healthierlifestyle, food security, andeconomic growth. Access to privateand community gardens couldempower citizens to grow their ownfood, reconnect people to theoutdoors and land, and fosterrelationships with our ParksDepartment and Home OwnersAssociations.For Energy, fossil fuel extraction,processing, transport, and the ever-increasing demand for energy areimpacting local, regional andnational air, water, and habitatquality. Rapidly evolving alternativeenergy technologies can reducecarbon loads and improve the carbonfootprint of individuals, businessesand industry. It is imperative to take actionto slow down climate change. Planningagencies must not ignore this reality butembrace it and allow extensive flexibility toinfluence market demand and behavior.For Waste Reduction, construction activity,the robust packaged goods industry as wellas population growth will continue to jeopardize natural resources and publicservices if current levels of waste generationare maintained. Waste must not only bereduced to decrease the burden on landfillsbut must also be viewed as a resource foralternative fuel production and materialsreuse.For Water Quality, Montgomery Countypractices will continue to greatly influencethe quality of the Chesapeake Bay, thelargest estuary in the United States. Theprimary sources of degradation to the Baycontinue to be erosion and runoff exacerbated by construction practices, theprevalence of impervious surfaces, untreatedstormwater runoff, as well as removal of vegetation. Regulations that increaseopportunities for public and personalresponsibility and look comprehensively atthe impacts of site design must beimplemented.For Transport/Mobility, a lack of connections for pedestrians and bicyclists tocommercial centers and transit hubs makes itan easier choice for many residents to useonly their personal automobiles to conductdaily activities. Increasing transport andmobility options for residents and visitorswill reduce carbon emissions andmaintenance/repair costs of roads, while atthe same time enhancing social equity.
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