A sustainable world begins with us. In an ecological frame, sustainability can be defined as the ability of an ecosystem to maintain environmental biodiversity and productivity into the future.

Evidence is clear that humanity is living unsustainably by consuming natural resources faster than they can be replenished. An unprecedented collective conservation effort is needed to return human use of natural resources to within sustainable limits.

For VCS, sustainability means being as self-reliant and self aware about what we do in everyday life as much as possible.   


>Recycling & Waste Reduction

Part of VCS’s broad definition of conservation involves promoting Island-wide coordination of
solid waste disposal and enhanced recycling capabilities in all Island towns.

>Local Food Production

Local farms define rural character, maintain a link with the past, and promise of a more sustainable future. VCS has worked for decades to conserve our prime farm soils and rejuvenate local farming using Agricultural Preservation Restrictions (APRs) and other tools. Building partnerships with towns and colleagues has been a formula for success at places like the new Ag Hall, Nip ‘n Tuck, Morning

>Energy Conservation

Curtailing the worst impacts of global climate change will require deployment of an arsenal of renewable energy technologies, and if we are to succeed, we must address conservation and efficiency – the DEMAND REDUCTION side of energy use.