Eight counties around the Capital Region will create a plan to promote more sustainable development under a $1 million grant announced Monday by Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

RPI President Shirley Ann Jackson said this sustainability initiative is an essential component of the region's economic plan.The funding was awarded funding through the Cleaner, Greener Communities program, an environmental initiative announced by the governor last year.

By providing competitive grants, the program rewards communities across the state that develop comprehensive regional smart growth plans. The program will increase green jobs, improve energy efficiency and reduce pollution.

The city of Albany will lead the planning process for the Capital Region. Rocco Ferraro, executive director of the Capital District Regional Planning Commission, told the Times Union that this planning effort "provides an excellent opportunity to bring together stakeholders from throughout the eight-county region to provide a framework for growth and collectively identify strategies, priorities, and projects to achieve a sustainable future in the greater Capital Region."

Sustainable development helps communities to use natural, economic and social resources more responsibly in order to preserve them for the future. Smart growth practices include implementing mixed land use, providing varied transportation choices, creating walkable neighborhoods and preserving open space.