Professors win $40,000 grant
UH, Rice researchers partner to study sustainability in Houston
Scott Norgaard
Issue date: 9/11/09 Section: News
Blackburn said these negative characteristics of Houston may play a role in the economy, which is currently undergoing a dramatic shift toward greater concern for sustainable development.
"I think we are moving toward an economy that is defined by terms different than GDP," Blackburn said. "I don't think you will be able to think of growth without environmental footprint being taken into account. ... If a certain company is looking to relocate its headquarters, they might choose not to be located in a place that is highly flood prone, has air that is unhealthy or has cancer-causing emissions."
Jones College freshman Kirby Kempe said he believes now is the time for environmental responsibility.
"Now that we have the technology and the resources to know how our decisions are impacting the environment, not doing anything would be irresponsible," Kempe said. "I think everyone has an obligation to reduce their footprint."
It may take a long time for the fruition of Blackburn's research to impact Houston, but he is ready for the difficult, multilayered challenge. In attempting to address the problem, Blackburn, his team and his students may not find a comprehensive solution, but the professor will take the difficulties in stride.
"We may find that we are measuring the wrong thing," Blackburn said. "It is very much going to be a true intellectual exercise of searching. ... That is what is going to be fun and difficult. I actually think of sustainable development as more of a process."
"I think we are moving toward an economy that is defined by terms different than GDP," Blackburn said. "I don't think you will be able to think of growth without environmental footprint being taken into account. ... If a certain company is looking to relocate its headquarters, they might choose not to be located in a place that is highly flood prone, has air that is unhealthy or has cancer-causing emissions."
Jones College freshman Kirby Kempe said he believes now is the time for environmental responsibility.
"Now that we have the technology and the resources to know how our decisions are impacting the environment, not doing anything would be irresponsible," Kempe said. "I think everyone has an obligation to reduce their footprint."
It may take a long time for the fruition of Blackburn's research to impact Houston, but he is ready for the difficult, multilayered challenge. In attempting to address the problem, Blackburn, his team and his students may not find a comprehensive solution, but the professor will take the difficulties in stride.
"We may find that we are measuring the wrong thing," Blackburn said. "It is very much going to be a true intellectual exercise of searching. ... That is what is going to be fun and difficult. I actually think of sustainable development as more of a process."
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