| SARASOTA COUNTY – Join sustainability experts, policy makers, business leaders, community members and more at a virtual workshop to help build healthy, resilient, equitable communities.The 15th Annual Sustainable Communities Workshop on Oct. 29 is a full-day, online event that will provide valuable insight on environmental, economic, and social aspects of sustainability. Attendees will learn the keys to the latest strategies, resources, and best practices to forge a new way forward for their community. |
 Historically held as an in-person workshop, the 2020 event transitions to a webinar setting for enhanced safety and access, creating new opportunities in the process. “Our online format this year allows us to bring expert speakers and information from anywhere in the world to our audience,” said Sophia Moundous, sustainability outreach coordinator with Sarasota County UF/IAS Extension and Sustainability. “And, attendees still will be able to move through different areas of the workshop, network with others, and do all the things attendees have enjoyed about the event in the past.” Register at https://ufsarasotaext.eventbrite.com for the 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. event, and learn the latest on myriad sustainability issues, including:personal and community resiliency,climate change related to social equity and health,circular economy,biophilic design and other sustainable building practices,environmental justice,innovative waste and agriculture solutions,youth involvement, andeconomic value of natural resources. Featured speakers throughout the day include: award-winning designer Dr. Leyla Acaroglu; Dr. Cheryl Holder, co-chair of Florida Clinicians for Climate Action; Alice Hill and Leonardo Martinez-Diaz, co-authors of “Building a Resilient Tomorrow: How to Prepare for the Coming Climate Disruption”; and circular economy expert William McDonough. The $10 workshop cost (students pay just $5) provides online access to all expert speakers and breakout sessions, as well as networking and visiting exhibitors. There also is an option to donate a ticket for those needing financial help to attend, with any remaining funds used toward a carbon-offset project. The workshop organizing partners are thankful for the support they receive from their many sponsors. Platinum and Gold level sponsors this year include Southface Institute, Florida House Institute, Gulf Coast Community Foundation, Transition Sarasota, and Elizabeth Moore. For more information on the workshop, speakers, and topics, an outline of the day’s activities, and to register, visit www.scgov.net/SustainableCommunities or call the Sarasota County Contact Center at 941-861-5000. An Equal Opportunity Institution. UF/IFAS Extension, University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences,Nick T. Place, dean for UF/IFAS Extension. Sarasota County prohibits discrimination in all services, programs or activities. View the complete policy at www.scgov.net/ADA. |