To the Editor:
When people hear the word sustainability, they often shy away from it. To some, it is about creating resilient infrastructure and systems that will last for many future generations. To others, it is about protecting and preserving parts of our earth, for either human enjoyment or the sake of the earth itself. Sustainability is about equity, economy and the environment. When Robert E. Simon decided to build a city, he envisioned one in which work and play could take place within the same shared space, that people would find a sense of place, and one in which nature was present and sprawl was hindered. His vision was one of innovation, and has been replicated throughout the United States since its establishment. 51 years after its creation, Reston, including Lake Anne Plaza and the surrounding areas, still displays and attempts to uphold these innovative ideas.
I've spent many weeks in Europe this summer learning about sustainable practices. What do the Europeans do that we could learn from? Often these practices are performed strictly out of convenience and efficiency, and the environmentally friendly aspect is just an added bonus. These practices include integrated public transit systems, low energy infrastructure, community housing, slow food, and maintaining a high quality of life. During my time, I often think of Lake Anne, which embodies most of these themes. But there is one aspect Europeans exhibit that Reston could learn from: a slower pace of life and enjoying the environment around them. This could mean nature or it could mean the built environment. Europeans, especially in parts of Germany and Switzerland that are leaders in sustainable environmental practices, are relaxed and confident. They are on time, they are brilliant, and they enjoy life.
I noticed that when I ordered a coffee or tea in a café, it was never put in a to-go cup. My check was never brought to me, I had to ask for it. And when I did pay, I was never shuffled out the door, but invited to stay longer. During lunch time, business owners and workers took a two hour lunch break and were often seen lounging around grassy areas or swimming in the lake, especially in Zurich.
Statues and monuments were not only structures of awe and amazement but also places to sit and eat lunch or talk with friends. In the evenings, people wandered from shop to shop holding beer and wine and enjoying the history and culture around them, not concerned with an open container law or driving 15 minutes home after a few drinks with friends. When I walked the streets, people looked me in the eye, and often stared. When I felt uncomfortable, I realized they were just taking the time to notice the people around them.
I gradually felt myself slowing down, walking with a lighter, less deliberate step. I watched people and studied store windows and enjoyed my coffee that was not in a plastic to go cup. I put my phone away at dinner and tasted each bite. Especially in Northern Virginia, we often feel rushed, ready and waiting for the next activity, the next new car, the next fresh coat of paint on the house, the next cup of coffee, the next new restaurant, and it is exhausting. Part of fulfilling the brilliant vision that Simon set out to achieve so long ago is taking the time to slow down, notice and enjoy the fact that his vision became a reality. Part of being a more sustainable Reston means appreciating the present.
The city of Reston was modeled after planned communities in Europe. It already captures the essence of a picturesque European town settled on the water. The live music, outdoor seating and farmers market at Lake Anne all contribute towards a sense of place and community. But Reston also suffers at the hands of its surroundings: the D.C. metro area. The "pace of life" as I like to call it is essential in maintaining a high quality of life. Appreciating local food and architecture, walking and biking, chewing slowly, engaging in conversation, being an advocate for the community, and putting the phone away all contribute towards a more sustainable Reston, and are absolutely necessary. I encourage these actions in the day-to-day and the rest will follow.
Cat Humphries
Herndon