Beyond Conservation
The rules of the game have changed. Not long ago, the focus of environmental action was the prevention of harmful impacts like pollution, primarily through regulation. Spurred by advocacy organizations, government defined the problem and the solution; private enterprise was considered either perpetrator or victim--depending upon your political view. The environment was seen to be something which could only be harmed by humans--the goal was simply to keep "hands off."
We at Center for Ecosystem Restoration believe this perspective is obsolete. With new technical tools and approaches, we can go beyond conservation. While environmental protection is as important as ever, we can now begin restoring our environment, rectifying generations of environmental degradation. The private sector has a vital interest in this work and a critical role to play.
Throughout the U.S., a new and transformative approach to environmental improvement is emerging. People are restoring natural ecosystems and built communities--working through powerful, usually ad-hoc, partnerships of governmental, private-sector and non-profit organizations. Center for Ecosystem Restoration is dedicated to furthering this transformative approach by building local capacity--developing and implementing projects, assisting in funding development, providing technical and non-technical tools and information to stakeholders.
From the milltowns of Massachusetts to the suburbs of Connecticut, from the White Mountains to Georges Bank, we can begin restoring Northeastern landscapes and communities. By rediscovering our ecosystems and communities, developing clean energy, and promoting local business, we will create sustainable local economies. Please join us as we work, together, toward a clean and vibrant future for our cherished New England landscape.