A research center at the University of Vermont, the Gund Institute researches and develops ways to link the economies of the built, natural, social, and human capitals of the world.
Activities
Recognizing that the current emphasis of the world’s economies on infinite economic growth is unhealthy and unsustainable, the Gund Institute works to develop policy solutions and innovative ideas for more sustainable economies. The Institute works through education, research, consulting, and development of new tools.
Relevant Project(s)
- The Envisioning a Sustainable and Desirable America project works to create a shared vision for the future of the country that can be used to direct growth and change. The Network has brought together a number of organizations and partners to discuss a vision for America and ways to get there. The Network held an important meeting, S&D America, 2100, which brought a cross-section of America together to use a high-tech virtual reality system that “was generated by a cross between a real time systems simulation model of the biophysical environment, an agent-based personality simulator (a super ‘Sims’), and an advanced ‘future search’ consensus building system.”
- Redesigning the American Neighborhood is a project attempting to bring stakeholders, consultants, regulators, and researchers together to visualize possible community futures and identify steps needed in order to create them. The project is currently focusing on storm water management near the Potash Brook in South Burlington, VT, but the long-term goal is to create a toolbox and set of processes that can apply to community and neighborhood planning challenges across the country.
Relevant Methodologies
The Gund Institute relies upon a large set of tools and methods, both cutting-edge and traditional. The most innovative aspect of most projects is the emphasis on combining quantitative data, high-tech tools, and community participation. Many of the Institute’s projects involve economic or GIS modeling, indicators, visioning, and partnerships between academic, governmental, and citizen groups.
Region
International; emphasis on Burlington, Vermont
More Information
University of Vermont
617 Main Street
Burlington, VT 05405
802-656-2906 (phone)
802-656-2995 (fax)