News & Events

January 18, 2007

This month, we have a guest writer.  Suburbs Alliance Communications Manager Sharon Carney reflects on energy efficiency and the evolving economy.

Lessons from Cavemen (and Women)

“It’s the economy, stupid.”

This timeless, blatantly intuitive piece of advice never seems to lose its relevance.  Now, more than ever in Michigan, it’s the economy, and only somebody who’s been living in a cave for the past five years wouldn’t be able to tell you that.  However, a cave dweller actually might have something to add to this debate.  Secluded from the news of corporate bankruptcies, plant closures, and ubiquitous outsourcing, he or she – if bold enough – might counter our former president’s sage advice with, “Oh, no – it’s the environment, stupid.”

In some circles, this statement may equal political suicide, but I’d argue that it has a place in Michigan’s – in particular southeast Michigan’s – economic debate.  While “It’s the environment, stupid,” is a long way off, sustainable practices and “green” thinking have a strong role to play in our state’s economic recovery.  These concepts are essential to creating a positive public image for our region as a modern, progressive place to work and live (a.k.a. drawing corporate headquarters and new startup companies to southeast Michigan).  Consequently, they have enormous potential to stimulate our transition to a knowledge-based economy by helping to attract young talent and “industries of the future.”

Admittedly, energy-efficiency is merely one component of the larger economic picture.  It will not spell out economic recovery on its own.  Nonetheless, it presents some viable opportunities for southeast Michigan and its communities – energy cost-savings just one among many. 

That leads me to some questions.  How do we embrace environmental awareness in a way that benefits our economy as much as our green spaces and air quality?  What can we do – as city leaders, community members, business leaders – to both create a more energy efficient region and stimulate economic development?  How do we move our communities forward into this new energy economy?

I can’t say that I have an answer to these questions at the moment, but I certainly hope to within the next month.  On February 22, the Suburbs Alliance will explore the issue of energy efficiency and its effects on economic development at our second Mayors and Managers Policy Breakfast.  Prioritizing efficiency and conservation, investing in new energy technologies, and exploring strategies for collaboration are just of the few of the topics we’ll discuss.  Whether you’re a city official, a business leader, an activist, or concerned citizen, I certainly hope you’ll join us. 

Cavemen, of course, are also welcome.

Sharon Carney

Suburbs Alliance Communications Manager