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COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO. -- Leaving our planet better for future generations – that's the mission of Catamount Institute. And one of the best ways to learn how to maximize our chances of success is by attending the 2010 Southern Colorado Sustainability Conference.

Catamount's Executive Director Eric Cefus said that education is the key – and that's what they hope to get across to everyone, both young and old.

“A lot of youth today understand the limited resources that we have. They understand renewable energy and conservation,” he said. “Now we're really trying to support the leaders of today and get them the tools that they need as well.”

Some of those tools being talked about at this year's conference include products (and discussions on how to use those products) that can help with solar and wind energy, Cefus said. But one of the most cost-effective ways to bring about change is through conservation.

“There are things you can do that aren't that expensive – and we're showing that to businesses,” he said.

Saving costs today is one thing; saving resources for future generations is the long-term goal, Cefus said.

“It's about leaving our community a better place. Everything I do is for my two kids,” he said. “By focusing on conserving our natural resources and creating a better work environment, then I can create a better quality of life for them.”

Although there's a primary focus on businesses at the conference, Cefus said it's really intended for anyone – from CEO to home maker – who wants to build a greener community without having to break the bank.

The 2010 Southern Colorado Sustainability Conference is hosted by the Pikes Peak Sustainable Business Network. It's being held at the Antlers Hilton in downtown Colorado Springs on Thursday, November 18 and Friday, November 19.

The Thursday session is free and open to the public. There is a charge for the Friday session. Rates and registration information is available by clicking here.

FOX21 and CW57 have teamed up with Catamount Institute to give you a chance of winning tickets to the Friday session.

Enter the drawing by clicking here.
Deadline to enter is Friday, November 12.