In outlining just sustainability, Julian Agyeman argues that combining the social needs and welfare of others provides a more ‘just’, rounded, equity-focused definition of sustainability without negating environmental threats.
“Sustainability cannot be simply a ‘green’, or ‘environmental’ concern, important though ‘environmental’ aspects of sustainability are. A truly sustainable society is one where wider questions of social needs and welfare, and economic opportunity are integrally related to environmental limits imposed by supporting ecosystems.”
– Julian Agyeman
LA’s supportive housing plan follows the just sustainabilities model by prioritizing social equity and the wellness of others in a way that is environmentally efficient and benefits the entire community, planet, and future generations.
█ IMPROVING QUALITY OF LIFE AND WELL-BEING
Building safe shelters allow all people to flourish by creating an uplifting living environment and an overall feeling of normalization and community. Those formerly experiencing homelessness are able to have access to new resources including health and social services, meals, clothing, relationships, and healing.
█ MEETING NEEDS OF PRESENT AND FUTURE GENERATIONS
Providing permanent affordable housing creates a positive impact on the human and natural systems that interact with them while avoiding other generations from encountering problems in the future. Investing in these projects can prevent the face of homelessness for future generations by providing them a stable foundation and environment to grow up in.
█ JUSTICE AND EQUITY
Supportive housing broadens accessibility to homeownership and affordable housing amongst all groups and does not discriminate against gender, age, race, sexual orientation, illness, or religion. It provides long-term services that help address chronic obstacles and provides an opportunity for people to get established and back up on their feet.
█ LIVING WITHIN ECOSYSTEM LIMITS
Tiny homes are a cost-effective way to utilize wasted and/or available property and can reduce childhood poverty while growing economic mobility in the United States. LA’s current solution to pay homeowners to allow units built in their backyard expands housing options without jeopardizing the area of single-family neighborhoods. Learn more >