Sustainability
More than ever, sustainable practices are becoming key policy to corporations worldwide. The Natural Sate is leading the charge in sustainable development through research and execution.
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Sustainability is no longer a topic limited to environmentalists and conservationists. Corporations worldwide are embracing sustainability as a way of positively affecting their bottom lines. Arkansas understands that sustainable development, at its roots, involves the simultaneous pursuit of economic prosperity, environmental quality, and social equity. As a result, Arkansas and many of its cities, companies, and universities have already shown a strong commitment to sustainability.
- Arkansas has more than 450 LEED credential professionals.
- Arkansas is the only site in the world with two adjacent LEED Platinum Building properties - Clinton Presidential Library and Heifer International.
- The Clinton School of Public Service registered to achieve LEED-EB certification. Registered in 1899, Sturgis Hall, formerly the Choctaw Station, is the oldest building in Arkansas registered with the intent to receive LEED certification and the oldest college building in the world to receive certification.
- Arkansas offers a variety of opportunities for individuals to incorporate and encourage sustainability through green neighborhoods and housing options.
- Arkansas was the first state in the nation that identified and pursued a targeted industry sector economic development strategy that addressed sustainability.
- Global leader, Walmart, headquartered in Bentonville, has shown its strong commitment to sustainability by setting three ambitious goals including “supplying the company 100 percent by renewable energy, creating zero waste and selling products that sustain people and the environment.” The company has been recognized globally for its leadership and actions toward its sustainability goals.
- Major non-profits headquartered in Arkansas are leading efforts toward worldwide sustainability practices, including Heifer International, Winrock International, and The William J. Clinton Foundation.
- The University of Arkansas and Arkansas State University systems, as well as many of the state's private and two-year colleges, have sustainability agendas being accomplished through operations and degree offerings.
- Arkansas cities have made strong commitments to sustainability by creating programs and plans in the areas of LEED certified construction, environmentally friendly infrastructure changes and improvements and economic development, among others.
- 2003, Biodiesel Incentive Act
- 2005, the Arkansas Energy and Natural Resources Conservation Act
- 2005, Act 2223 Biodiesel production tax refund and formation of Arkansas Alternative Fuels Development Fund
- 2008, Act 696 Arkansas Governor’s Commission on Global Warming
- 2009, Sustainable Energy-Efficient Buildings Program