Higher graduation rates, less violence, a sense of belonging instead of alienation: the case for small schools is supported by mountains of evidence and a growing number of innovative models. But many state and local governments persist in consolidation efforts, fueled by a misguided belief in the effectiveness of giant schools. By Stacy Mitchell… Read More
Feature Stories:
Seeding Power: The Other Problem with GMCrops — Low Power Suffers a Low Blow — Jack and the Giant School — Think Locally Tax Globally.… Read More
Web retailers in the U.S. are largely exempt from collecting state and local sales taxes. In allowing this exemption, Congress agrees to give out-of-state businesses a 5 to 7 percent price advantage over local stores. Proponents of the exemption argue internet-based suppliers would stagger under the administrative burden of collecting thousands of different state and local sales taxes; opponents of the exemption argue that the electronic commerce companies don’t need help siphoning business away from already-struggling downtowns. … Read More
Deconstruction is the careful disassembly of buildings to recover valuable materials – is at the “take-off” stage of development. For our staff at the Institute for Local Self-Reliance and many others, the definition of deconstruction also includes job creation in low income neighborhoods. Start-up companies and demonstration projects that involve traditional demolition companies in joint venture contracts are proving the viability of deconstruction.… Read More
E-Bits highlights ILSR’s Waste to Wealth Program work, from creating jobs and recycling-oriented enterprises, to recycling policies that close the loop locally, to model waste reduction initiatives. … Read More
This fact sheet packet profiles seven building projects-from new construction to renovation and deconstruction-that are recovering 42 to 82% of materials otherwise destined for disposal. Policymakers wanting to encourage building material recovery, building owners and developers interested in green building design, and contractors seeking a competitive edge will find this document useful.… Read More
Prepared and distributed by the Center for Commercial-Free Public Education. TheCenter for Commercial Free Public Education is a nonprofit public education advocacy organization that addresses the issue of commercialism in our public schools. The Center provides support to students, parents, teachers, school board members and other concerned citizens organizing across the U.S. to keep their schools commercial-free and community-controlled. By providing our constituents with the information and the skills that they need to have a voice in the running of their schools, we facilitate leadership development and democratic participation at the local level.… Read More
Serving Diverse Populations with Recycling by Mark Jackson 2000This case study, prepared for the California Integrated Waste Management Board, identifies barriers communities may face in delivering recycling services to diverse populations (multi-ethnic, low-income, tourist, student, elderly), and features how cities are overcoming these challenges.
Recycling at Special Events by Kelly Lease 2000This case study, prepared for the California Integrated Waste Management Board, will help event organizers to reduce waste and local planners to establish programs and policies to encourage event recycling within their jurisdictions. It highlights efforts in California and elsewhere.
