Appalachian Sustainable Development (ASD) is
a not-for-profit organization working in the
Appalachian region of Virginia and
Tennessee. Formed in 1995, ASD focuses on
developing healthy, diverse and ecologically
sound economic opportunities through
education and training, and the development
of cooperative networks and marketing
systems. Our work encompasses two broad
areas: Building a strong local food system
based on organic and sustainable farming and
fostering forest conservation through
value-added wood processing and "green
building." ASD links consumers with farmers
and producers and provides hands-on
opportunities for learning, advocacy and
civic engagement.
Our Mission
We come together as citizens living in and
near the watersheds of the Clinch and Powell
Rivers to affirm the need for development
that is sustainable and beneficial for
nature and people, for culture and
community. Thus we pledge ourselves to work
for this sustainable development:
·
By promoting the values underlying a respect
for people, nature, community and culture;
·
By enabling local communities to meet their
own needs;
·
By establishing ecologically sensitive
businesses;
·
By creating services enhancing human
potential; and
·
By utilizing strategies building upon
regional strengths
