Birds of a feather really do flock together. For as long as I can remember, people have been flocking together for many different reasons. Back in school it was the cool kids, band kids, geeks, jocks - well, you remember. In the years to follow I noticed people were still banding together but for more productive purposes. Now as a business owner, I notice different groups. For a long time it was just the Chamber of Commerce or Better Business Bureau. Business networking was reserved for those to attend early morning breakfasts or after hours socials, in hopes of getting to know other local business owners. Now with the Internet, that has all changed. Like-minded businesses have more resources now more than ever to get to know each other. Allow me to introduce one of those new options,
The Florida Sustainability Center. (FSC)
On their website they state, "We at the FSC feel that it is important to
highlight and to call attention to individuals, businesses and
organizations that are leading by responsible example and to tell their
story so others can be inspired and learn from the valuable work they
are doing. It is only through cultural and societal change that we will
achieve the kind of systemic transformation we need in order to survive.
This cultural change can only come about if the stories and examples of
those leading the way are heard."
We can all learn by example. A place to share our ideas, successes, fears, laughs, and recommendations is an integral part of business. The Florida Sustainability Center is a resource for business owners to seek out other
sustainable Florida businesses. The FSC defines sustainability as the capacity to endure."It is based upon
the simple principle that everything we humans need for our survival and
well-being depends upon the resources of our natural environment. The
world in which we live is a system in which all elements interrelate and
coexist in a harmonious balance of creation and destruction. Nothing
exists or functions in isolation." They are right, nothing can exist in isolation. What good is your business without customers? If you feel that sustainability is important, than plug into those around you. None of us can do it alone, so let's not try.
I want to thank Tracey Millhorn for starting such a wonderful website, allowing us all to come together, right now. For more information contact the
Florida Sustainability Center or email them at
contactus@floridasustainabilitycenter.com.
--Angie Ringler
