What is Sustainability?

About Us

Clean air and water

Abundant and healthy biodiversity

Renewal of natural resources

Ecosystem integrity

Carrying capacity - supporting a population without degradation of the environment

Management to discourage introduction of toxic pollutants into the environment

Sustainability is about ensuring a better quality of life for everyone now and for generations to come. It is a process that envisions a desirable state for human societies in which living conditions and resource-use continue to meet human needs without undermining the integrity, stability and beauty of natural environment upon which we depend for our survival. It is the interplay of economic, social and environmental forces. And the point at which these forces meet is where sustainable practices can be implemented to bring about positive impacts for all.

Sustainable Stoughton began in the spring of 2014. A group of citizens looked at current city development issues and came together to bring about public discussion on sustainable development for Stoughton.

In the fall of 2014, Sustainable Stoughton merged with Naturally Stoughton, another local citizen group focused on education, community, and working toward more environmentally sound management of our public parks.

In the fall of 2015 we created a formal board of directors and began the application process to become a non-profit organization. We've had many accomplishments in our short time together and have exciting plans for the future. See our Activities page for a complete list of what we've been up to.

Strong schools

Programs to enhance the well-being of all residents

Open green spaces and natural areas

Equity and Empowerment

Preservation of historical and cultural heritage

Participation in governance

Economic Vitality

Our team

Harmony with the Natural Environment

Healthy Communities

We are a diverse group of people who share a common passion of concern for the environment and the well-being of our community. Our aspiration is that the ripple effect of our actions will be to inspire and engage our citizens to develop a vision of sustainability in all aspects of our community. We welcome anyone who shares these interests to join us in our many projects.

“All ethics so far evolved rest upon a single premise: that the individual is a member of a community of interdependent parts. The land ethic simply enlarges the boundaries of the community to include soils, waters, plants and animals, or collectively the land.”

Aldo Leopold

Our History

Efficient use of resources

Vibrant and walkable downtown

Vital services

Industry and agriculture

Development