Service-Learning Corps: State Colleges and the Sustainable Economy
Part of the challenge confronting sustainability scholars is how we would go about transitioning to a sustainable economy.
There are at least two non-viable options. The first is to attempt to regenerate ecosystems while, at the same time, increasing consumerism and growing the economy. The second non-viable option is to merely constrain the economy with taxes and regulations. This would drive the economy toward collapse.
The third option, the ideal scenario, is to provide necessary environmental regulations and tax incentives, while investing in an economy that operates sustainably – in conjunction.
One way to do this is through Regenerative economic hubs based out of Universities. Service-learning programs would allow students to immerse themselves in local economy, develop skills, contribute to assessing demand, and engage in planning and collaborative design with community partners.