Updated December 2, 2008 -Click here to download a PDF version of this strategy

The conservation of natural resources is fundamental to the MetroFuture scenario.  The plan envisions dramatic reductions in the use of energy and water, through conservation and the use of alternative sources.  More efficient use of resources is critical to the local and global environment, as well as to the regional economy, and contributes to America’s national security by reducing its dependence on foreign oil.  The coming decades will bring great changes to the way the nation uses natural resources. Nowhere will these changes be greater than in the field of energy, where rising prices could become a drag on economic growth if the region is not prepared.  Meanwhile, unsustainable water use can threaten supplies that support economic growth.  Water and energy savings often go hand-in-hand, as more efficient water use means less energy is needed for pumping, treating, and heating potable water.  Reducing water use also reduces the considerable amount of energy needed for treating wastewater. Conversely, reducing energy use reduces the need for coolant water at power plants, which represents a significant consumptive use of water in Massachusetts.

By accomplishing MetroFuture’s ambitious goals for energy conservation and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, the region will be doing its part to prevent global warming.  The impacts of that warming are not remote—they will affect this region directly. within the foreseeable future.  A 2004 study of Climate’s Long-Term Impacts on Metro Boston (CLIMB) concluded that the MAPC region is facing a future in which temperatures will exceed 90 degrees on 30 days per year, twice the current number; sea levels along the Metro Boston coastline could rise at least 24 inches, increasing storm intensity and causing up to $94 billion in coastal property damage during this century; and river flooding might impact twice as many properties and cost twice as much in damage.  In addition, climate changes induced by global warming will have impacts on the Massachusetts’ agriculture, tourism, and fishing industries as well as impacting water supplies, human health and comfort.

Massachusetts has committed itself to taking action on global warming by recommitting itself to New England Governors/Eastern Canadian Premiers Climate Change Action Plan, the 2004 Massachusetts Climate Protection Plan, and most recently, the Green Communities Act.  Many cities and towns in the region have become proactive, working on their own or with national and international programs.  This strategy recommends a variety of state, regional, and local actions to implement (or surpass) these policies through technical assistance, regulation, financing, and incentives.

This strategy also addresses the efficient use of water resources, a critical part of the natural “green infrastructure” that supports existing communities and new development as well as the natural heritage and ecology of aquatic habitats and watersheds.  Historic patterns of water use, water quality, and stormwater management have often resulted in resource depletion, stress on watersheds, degraded water quality, and loss or impairment of habitats and watershed ecology.  However, most of these negative impacts can be significantly reduced or mitigated with sustainable water resources management techniques that include innovative approaches to water supply, wastewater treatment, and stormwater management.  

Because these key infrastructure systems are administered at the local and regional level, sustainable water management measures must largely be implemented locally, although the state needs to play a critical role in revising regulations and providing technical assistance and funding to support local efforts.  Municipal water committees can provide an official platform for advocates to promote water use efficiency. There is also an important role to be played by businesses, industries, and homeowners in adopting sustainable resource management measures.