I’ve spent the last four years working in the travel industry. And I’ve officially been immersed in the world of sustainability for four days. It’s a bit of a leap.

The majority of my time since coming on-board as an Olsonista handling the Valley Forward Association account has been spent learning “sustainability speak,” looking up different keywords and phrases like “sustainable urbanism” and “land use planning” like I was back in high school studying for a vocabulary test. Luckily, I rocked at vocab tests. (Gym class – that was another story).

Probably the most important thing I’ve learned, besides what the phrase “smart growth strategies” means, is that the language of environmentalism really isn’t so foreign after all. In fact, decisions that are made every day regarding Phoenix’s sustainable initiatives have a major impact on our lives. Yes, have not will have. Environmental choices made by our government, urban planners, and even everyday folks like you and I have a rather immediate impact on our quality of life. Transportation, housing, jobs, the air we breathe, our economy – all of these things are somehow impacted by decisions made to create a more sustainable planet. Starting right here in the Valley.

Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the conversation. If you’re wondering what the environmental powers-that-be have in-store for Phoenix and the rest of the Valley, join me at the Valley Forward Association’s Livability Summit on Thursday, April 22. (Also known as Earth Day!) And don’t let all of the foreign-sounding language intimidate you. We can learn together.

While you’re at it, check out Valley Forward Association’s Facebook page. They’ve got a contest going where you can win a free ticket to the event. Just tell us what you do to promote clean living in Phoenix.