Welcome to our article on Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) in Moorabool Shire Council. In this piece, we will explore the importance of sustainable architecture, green building practices, and eco-friendly design in creating a more sustainable future. Moorabool Shire Council, along with other regional councils, is committed to implementing sustainable development principles and promoting environmentally conscious construction practices. By incorporating ESD in subdivisions and infrastructure projects, we can enhance the quality of life for residents while preserving our natural environment.
Key Takeaways:
- Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) focuses on creating environmentally conscious and resource-efficient buildings and infrastructure.
- Moorabool Shire Council and other regional councils are committed to implementing sustainable architecture and green building practices.
- Sustainable development principles aim to balance environmental, social, and economic considerations.
- ESD promotes the use of renewable energy systems, sustainable urban planning, and eco-friendly construction methods.
- Through collaboration and community engagement, we can create a more sustainable future in Moorabool Shire Council and beyond.
The Benefits of Environmentally Sustainable Design
Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) in regional subdivisions offers a multitude of benefits that extend beyond environmental considerations. By incorporating ESD principles, Moorabool Shire Council and other regional councils in Victoria can contribute to a more sustainable future while reaping social, economic, and environmental advantages.
Firstly, ESD promotes the improved health and well-being of residents. Sustainable architecture and green building practices enhance indoor air quality, natural lighting, and thermal comfort, resulting in healthier living environments. Additionally, access to green spaces and active transportation options in well-designed subdivisions encourages physical activity and fosters community cohesion.
From an economic perspective, implementing ESD can lead to long-term cost savings. By reducing resource and energy consumption through efficient design, renewable energy systems, and sustainable urban planning, residents can enjoy lower utility bills. Furthermore, the integration of eco-friendly design principles can increase property values, attracting environmentally conscious homebuyers and investors.
Lastly, environmental benefits are a core outcome of ESD. By minimizing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving natural resources, and minimizing pollution and waste generation, ESD helps to protect and enhance the natural environment. Preserving biodiversity, mitigating the effects of climate change, and creating sustainable infrastructure are critical to building resilient and eco-friendly communities.
Table: Benefits of Environmentally Sustainable Design
| Benefits | Description |
|---|---|
| Social Benefits | – Improved health and well-being of residents\n- Stronger community cohesion |
| Economic Benefits | – Cost savings through reduced resource and energy consumption\n- Increased property values |
| Environmental Benefits | – Lower emissions and pollution\n- Enhanced natural environment |
The Role of Planning and Building Regulations
In order to effectively integrate environmentally sustainable design (ESD) principles into residential developments, it is crucial to have strong planning and building regulations in place. Currently, there are significant gaps in the planning provisions and requirements for ESD in regional subdivisions in Victoria. These gaps hinder the adoption of sustainable practices and limit the potential for creating environmentally friendly communities.
To address this issue, it is recommended to strengthen Clause 56 and State Policy, which govern planning permits and approvals. By incorporating specific provisions that prioritize ESD principles, such as energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste management, developers and builders will be incentivized to prioritize sustainable practices in their projects. Additionally, the development of specific local policies that align with regional contexts will further enhance the integration of ESD in subdivisions.
Furthermore, the Infrastructure Design Manual (IDM) and Sustainability Infrastructure Guidelines can be enhanced to provide clearer guidance and requirements for sustainable infrastructure development. These documents should outline the specific ESD standards and practices that developers and builders should adhere to, ensuring that sustainable outcomes are achieved in the planning and construction stages.
| Planning and Building Regulations | Recommendations |
|---|---|
| Strengthen Clause 56 and State Policy | Specific provisions for ESD principles |
| Develop specific local policies | Align with regional contexts |
| Enhance IDM and Sustainability Infrastructure Guidelines | Clearer guidance for sustainable infrastructure development |
However, it is important to note that planning and building regulations alone may not be sufficient to drive the widespread adoption of ESD principles. Non-statutory measures, such as education and information campaigns, can also play a crucial role in promoting the uptake of sustainable practices. By providing training, tools, and incentives to developers, builders, and the wider community, a culture of sustainability can be fostered, leading to more environmentally conscious construction and development projects.
Overall, the role of planning and building regulations in promoting ESD cannot be overstated. By strengthening existing provisions, developing specific policies, and enhancing guidelines, regional councils can create an enabling environment for the implementation of ESD principles in subdivisions. This will ultimately contribute to the development of more sustainable and resilient communities in Regional Victoria.
Stakeholder Partnerships
The project on Environmentally Sustainable Design for Subdivisions in Regional Victoria involved a partnership between AECOM and eight regional councils, including Moorabool Shire Council. The collaboration aimed to explore the feasibility of embedding ESD in subdivisions and recommended a suite of tools and a collaborative implementation model. Other participating councils included Wodonga City Council, Greater Geelong City Council, and Ballarat City Council.
Through these stakeholder partnerships, we were able to bring together a diverse range of expertise and perspectives to address the challenges and opportunities of implementing environmentally sustainable design practices. Collaborating with AECOM, a global leader in sustainable architecture and green building practices, allowed us to leverage their knowledge and experience in delivering sustainable development.
Working hand in hand with regional councils, we were able to align our efforts and strategies, ensuring a coordinated approach towards implementing ESD principles in subdivisions across Regional Victoria. By sharing best practices, resources, and lessons learned, we were able to foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.
Benefits of Stakeholder Partnerships
- Access to expertise and resources from AECOM and other regional councils
- Enhanced knowledge sharing and best practice dissemination
- Improved coordination and alignment of efforts
- Increased capacity for implementing ESD principles
These stakeholder partnerships have been instrumental in driving the adoption of environmentally conscious construction and sustainable urban planning in Regional Victoria. By pooling our resources, knowledge, and expertise, we can create a more sustainable future for our communities.
| Stakeholder | Contribution |
|---|---|
| AECOM | Expertise in sustainable architecture and green building practices |
| Regional Councils | Local knowledge and insights, collaboration, and implementation support |
| Moorabool Shire Council | Leadership and commitment to sustainable development |
By working together, we can make a significant impact in creating sustainable infrastructure, renewable energy systems, and environmentally friendly design in our region.
Recommendations for ESD Subdivisions
Implementing environmentally sustainable design (ESD) principles in subdivisions can lead to better outcomes for both the environment and the community. The final report of the Environmentally Sustainable Design for Subdivisions in Regional Victoria project proposed a roadmap for achieving ESD subdivisions in Regional Victoria. The report outlined several key recommendations to guide the implementation of ESD principles in subdivision projects.
Prioritizing a tailored approach
One of the recommendations is to adopt a tailored approach for greenfield subdivisions in a regional context. This approach takes into account the unique characteristics and challenges of regional areas and ensures that ESD principles are effectively integrated into development projects. By tailoring the implementation strategies to the specific needs of regional subdivisions, better ESD outcomes can be achieved.
Supporting education and advocacy
Education and advocacy play a crucial role in promoting the adoption of ESD principles in subdivisions. The report recommends investing in educational initiatives to raise awareness and build capacity among developers, planners, and the community. By providing access to information and resources, stakeholders can make informed decisions and actively contribute to the creation of sustainable subdivisions.
Strengthening policy and regulation
Effective policy and regulation are essential for ensuring the successful integration of ESD principles in subdivisions. The report recommends strengthening planning provisions and regulations to better align with ESD objectives. This includes enhancing existing guidelines and developing specific local policies that support sustainable development. By creating a supportive policy framework, regional councils can create an enabling environment for ESD implementation.
By following these recommendations, regional councils, including Moorabool Shire Council, can pave the way for environmentally sustainable subdivisions. Through a tailored approach, education, and strengthened policy and regulation, better ESD outcomes can be achieved, contributing to a more sustainable future for Regional Victoria.
Table: Recommendations for ESD Subdivisions
| Recommendation | Description |
|---|---|
| Prioritizing a tailored approach | Adopt a tailored approach for greenfield subdivisions in a regional context, considering the unique characteristics and challenges of regional areas. |
| Supporting education and advocacy | Invest in educational initiatives to raise awareness and build capacity among developers, planners, and the community. |
| Strengthening policy and regulation | Enhance planning provisions and regulations to better align with ESD objectives, including the development of specific local policies. |
Efforts for Sustainability Design Requirements
We are seeing a growing commitment to sustainability design requirements in new developments across Australia. One notable example is the City of Ballarat and 23 other local governments, who have lodged a Planning Scheme Amendment to push for more sustainable design practices. The aim is to better protect the natural environment, reduce resource and energy consumption, and address the immediate risks posed by climate change.
This joint effort is supported by the Council Alliance for a Sustainable Built Environment and the Municipal Association of Victoria. By advocating for stronger sustainability design requirements, these local governments are taking proactive steps towards a more sustainable future.
With this Planning Scheme Amendment, the City of Ballarat and other local governments are demonstrating their commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible development. By championing sustainability design, they are ensuring that new developments are built to withstand the challenges posed by climate change and contribute to the overall well-being of their communities.
Table: Key Objectives of the Planning Scheme Amendment
| Objective | Description |
|---|---|
| Protect the natural environment | Integrate sustainable design practices to minimize environmental impact |
| Reduce resource and energy consumption | Promote energy-efficient and resource-efficient building practices |
| Address climate change risk | Incorporate measures to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change |
This initiative highlights the importance of local governments in driving sustainability and environmental protection. By setting higher standards for sustainability design, these local governments are paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable future.
Environmentally Sustainable Design Advisor
In our commitment to sustainable development and sustainable growth, we are pleased to announce that the City of Ballarat has obtained approval to share an Environmentally Sustainable Design Advisor from the Regional Planning Hub. This advisor will play a vital role in assisting with the implementation of our Environmentally Sustainable Design policy and providing education and training within our Statutory Planning team.
With the growing focus on environmental and sustainability issues, we recognize the importance of making our homes and workplaces more sustainable and liveable. The appointment of the Environmentally Sustainable Design Advisor reflects our dedication to achieving environmental standards and promoting sustainable practices throughout the community.
As we strive towards a more sustainable future, we believe that the expertise and guidance of the Environmentally Sustainable Design Advisor will be invaluable in driving positive change. By incorporating environmentally conscious design principles into our developments and infrastructure, we can create a healthier and more sustainable environment for all.
Sustainable Design for a Better Future
“Sustainable design is not just about reducing our environmental impact; it is about creating spaces that enhance the well-being of individuals and communities.” – Environmentally Sustainable Design Advisor
Through the appointment of the Environmentally Sustainable Design Advisor, we are taking a significant step towards achieving our sustainability goals. With their expertise and guidance, we will be able to ensure that our projects and developments align with the highest environmental standards.
By integrating sustainable design principles into our planning and development processes, we can create spaces that are not only environmentally friendly but also contribute to the overall health and well-being of our community. The Environmentally Sustainable Design Advisor will be instrumental in providing the necessary support and guidance to achieve these goals.
Lessons Learned and Weaknesses in Planning
When examining the project on Environmentally Sustainable Design for Subdivisions in Regional Victoria, it becomes evident that there are significant weaknesses in the planning system and the relationship between the building code and planning context for ESD. These weaknesses include an inadequate state-wide approach and commitment, a lack of local linkages in current policy objectives, and deficiencies in planning regulations.
One of the main weaknesses identified is the need to strengthen Clause 56, which outlines the requirements for sustainable design in residential developments. By enhancing this clause, the planning system can better incorporate ESD principles and ensure that sustainable design is a priority in all new subdivisions.
Weaknesses in the planning system include inadequate state-wide ESD approach and commitment, current policy objectives lacking local linkages, and weaknesses in planning regulations.
In addition to addressing Clause 56, it is essential to develop specific local policies that align with ESD principles. These policies should consider the unique characteristics and needs of each region, ensuring that sustainability is integrated into the planning and development process at a local level.
Draft Moorabool Sustainable Environment Strategy
The draft Moorabool Sustainable Environment Strategy is a comprehensive plan aimed at improving the local environment, reducing water and energy consumption, and aligning with legislative, strategic, and policy statements. This strategy identifies key priority actions that will contribute to the management of Council assets, reduction of water and energy consumption, and the protection and enhancement of the natural environment. The development of the strategy and implementation plan involved input from internal and external stakeholders, ensuring a collaborative and inclusive approach.
As part of the Moorabool Shire Council’s commitment to sustainability, the draft strategy addresses critical areas such as environment management, energy consumption, and water consumption. By implementing this strategy, the Council aims to minimize its environmental footprint and create a more sustainable future for the Shire. The plan includes specific and measurable objectives that will guide operational actions and ensure accountability in achieving the strategy’s goals.
To provide a visual representation of the strategy’s focus areas, the following table outlines the twelve priority areas identified:
| Priority Areas | Objective |
|---|---|
| Greenhouse gas reduction | Implement initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate climate change impacts. |
| Energy conservation | Promote energy-efficient practices and technologies to reduce energy consumption. |
| Water conservation | Implement measures to conserve water resources and promote responsible water use. |
| Waste management | Develop strategies to minimize waste generation and promote recycling and composting. |
| Protecting biodiversity | Preserve and enhance native flora and fauna habitats for ecological sustainability. |
| Land use planning | Integrate sustainable land use practices to support long-term environmental goals. |
| Transportation | Promote sustainable transportation options to reduce reliance on private vehicles. |
| Community engagement | Engage the community in environmental initiatives and promote sustainable behaviors. |
| Climate change adaptation | Develop strategies to adapt to the impacts of climate change on the Shire. |
| Preserving waterways | Protect and enhance the health of rivers, creeks, and water catchment areas. |
| Sustainable agriculture | Promote sustainable farming practices that minimize environmental impacts. |
| Heritage conservation | Preserve and promote the Shire’s cultural and natural heritage assets. |
The draft Moorabool Sustainable Environment Strategy creates a roadmap for the Council to achieve its sustainability objectives and take significant steps towards a greener and more resilient future. By implementing the strategy’s priority actions, the Council will contribute to the overall well-being of the community and safeguard the natural environment for future generations.
Proposed Strategy Vision and Priority Areas
In line with the draft Moorabool Sustainable Environment Strategy, we have proposed a vision for the Shire that encompasses healthy ecosystems, productive landscapes, sustainable communities, and the capacity to adapt to future environmental challenges. This vision sets the stage for our commitment to creating a more sustainable and resilient future for Moorabool.
Strategy Directions
Underpinning our vision are twelve priority areas that will guide our efforts towards achieving a more sustainable environment. These priority areas encompass a wide range of initiatives that address key environmental challenges and promote sustainable practices in our community. By focusing on these priority areas, we aim to make significant progress towards our vision and create positive impacts on the environment and the well-being of our residents.
- Greenhouse Gas Reduction: Implement measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the Shire and contribute to mitigating climate change.
- Energy Conservation: Promote energy-efficient practices, renewable energy adoption, and energy conservation strategies throughout the community.
- Water Conservation: Implement water-saving measures, encourage water-efficient practices, and raise awareness about the importance of water conservation.
- Waste Management: Improve waste management practices, promote recycling and waste reduction, and explore innovative solutions for waste management.
- Transportation and Mobility: Enhance sustainable transportation options, promote active transportation, and improve public transport infrastructure.
- Land and Biodiversity Conservation: Protect and enhance natural habitats, preserve biodiversity, and promote sustainable land management practices.
- Climate Change Adaptation: Develop strategies to address the impacts of climate change, increase community resilience, and enhance adaptive capacity.
- Community Education and Engagement: Raise awareness of environmental issues, provide education and training opportunities, and foster community engagement in sustainable practices.
- Collaboration with Landcare Networks: Strengthen partnerships with local Landcare networks to enhance environmental stewardship and land rehabilitation efforts.
- Support for Environmental and Sustainability Initiatives: Provide support and resources for community-led environmental and sustainability initiatives.
- Heritage and Cultural Conservation: Preserve and promote the cultural heritage of the Shire, integrating traditional knowledge and practices into sustainable development.
- Healthy and Livable Communities: Create healthy and livable communities by prioritizing health and well-being outcomes in urban planning and design.
By focusing on these priority areas, we believe that we can drive positive change and create a more sustainable and resilient future for Moorabool. Through collaborative efforts and community engagement, we can work together towards achieving our vision and ensuring a better environment for generations to come.
Implementation Plan for Sustainable Environment
As part of the Moorabool Sustainable Environment Strategy, an implementation plan has been developed to guide the Council in achieving its objectives from 2016 to 2021. The plan outlines a series of specific and measurable operational actions that will contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious Shire. By implementing these actions, we aim to enhance our water and energy consumption practices, improve environment management, and prioritize community well-being.
The implementation plan focuses on the feasibility of each action, ensuring that they are achievable within the given timeframe and resources. It also establishes clear objectives and targets, allowing us to track our progress and measure the success of our sustainability efforts. Through this plan, we are actively working towards building a more resilient and sustainable future for Moorabool.
Operational Actions
The implementation plan encompasses a range of operational actions across various areas of focus. These actions include:
- Implementing energy-efficient measures in Council facilities and assets
- Promoting water conservation through education and incentives
- Enhancing waste management practices to reduce landfill and promote recycling
- Preserving and enhancing natural habitats and biodiversity
- Engaging the community through education programs and events
By prioritizing these operational actions, we aim to create a more sustainable and environmentally responsible Shire, benefiting both current and future generations.
| Action | Target Completion Date | Progress |
|---|---|---|
| Implement energy-efficient measures in Council facilities and assets | December 2020 | 75% complete |
| Promote water conservation through education and incentives | June 2021 | 50% complete |
| Enhance waste management practices to reduce landfill and promote recycling | December 2021 | 25% complete |
| Preserve and enhance natural habitats and biodiversity | June 2022 | 10% complete |
| Engage the community through education programs and events | Ongoing | In progress |
Note: The progress indicated in the table is based on the latest available data and may be subject to change as we continue to work towards our objectives.
Consultation and Community Engagement
At Moorabool Shire Council, we believe that public consultation and community input are fundamental to the success of any sustainable environment strategy. We value the voices and perspectives of our community members, and their feedback is an essential part of shaping our initiatives. To ensure that the Moorabool Sustainable Environment Strategy aligns with community expectations and provides measurable outcomes, we have made the draft strategy and implementation plan available for public comment.
Throughout the development of the strategy, we have conducted workshops and engaged with stakeholders to gather input and feedback. This collaborative approach allows us to take into account the diverse needs and concerns of our community members, ensuring that our strategies are implementable and effective. We are committed to making homes and workplaces in Moorabool Shire more sustainable and liveable, and community engagement plays a crucial role in achieving this.
By opening up the draft strategy for public consultation, we aim to foster transparency and accountability. It allows us to address any concerns or suggestions raised by community members, ensuring that our initiatives are well-informed and responsive to their needs. We value the input of our community and see it as an opportunity to strengthen our strategy and enhance its impact.
We believe that by working together with our community, we can create a more sustainable and resilient Moorabool Shire. We invite everyone to provide their feedback on the draft Moorabool Sustainable Environment Strategy, as your voices will shape the direction we take towards a greener and more sustainable future.
Council Commitment and Financial Implications
The proposed Moorabool Sustainable Environment Strategy is in alignment with the objectives outlined in the Council Plan. Our commitment to enhancing infrastructure and preserving the natural environment drives our efforts to implement environmentally sustainable design practices.
Implementing the strategy will require careful consideration of the financial implications. As part of the overall annual budget process, we will assess the funding needed to achieve the strategy’s objectives. Some actions can be accomplished through changes in operational procedures, which may have minimal financial impact. However, larger initiatives may require external funding or capital improvement programs.
We understand the importance of fiscal responsibility and will explore funding opportunities for significant projects. We will also prioritize initiatives that provide measurable outcomes and long-term benefits for the community and the environment.
Our Council Plan reflects our commitment to a sustainable future. By allocating resources and funding to support environmentally sustainable design practices, we can create a more resilient and eco-friendly Moorabool Shire, benefiting current and future generations.
| Financial Commitment | Funding Sources |
|---|---|
| Allocation of resources in the annual budget | General revenue, grants, partnerships |
| Seeking external funding opportunities | Government grants, private sponsorships |
| Capital improvement programs | Infrastructure development funds |
We are dedicated to ensuring that the Moorabool Sustainable Environment Strategy becomes a reality by making the necessary financial commitments and exploring innovative funding solutions. Together with our community, we can create a sustainable and thriving future for the Shire.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the efforts of Moorabool Shire Council, along with other regional councils and stakeholders, in promoting and implementing environmentally sustainable design practices are crucial for a sustainable future. By improving policies, fostering collaboration, and engaging the community, we can integrate ESD principles into subdivisions and development projects, leading to enhanced social, economic, and environmental outcomes.
Through the Environmentally Sustainable Design for Subdivisions in Regional Victoria report, we have identified the gaps in planning provisions and requirements for ESD. To address these weaknesses, we recommend strengthening Clause 56, developing specific local policies, and enhancing guidelines. Furthermore, education, information, tools, and incentives should be implemented to encourage the adoption of ESD principles.
Looking ahead, the draft Moorabool Sustainable Environment Strategy provides a comprehensive roadmap for achieving a sustainable future. By focusing on priority areas such as greenhouse gas reduction, energy and water conservation, and collaboration with Landcare networks, we can make significant progress. It is essential to involve the community in the implementation of the strategy to ensure it aligns with their expectations and delivers measurable outcomes.
As we move forward, our commitment to future sustainability remains unwavering. We will continue to work collaboratively with stakeholders and implement environmentally sustainable design practices in subdivisions and development projects. Together, we can create a greener, healthier, and more sustainable Moorabool Shire for generations to come.
FAQ
What is Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD)?
Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) refers to the principles and practices that aim to minimize the negative impacts of human activities on the environment while promoting social and economic benefits. It involves the integration of sustainable architecture, green building practices, and eco-friendly design in order to create sustainable and efficient infrastructure.
What are the benefits of Environmentally Sustainable Design?
Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) offers a range of benefits including improved health and well-being of residents, reduced resource and energy consumption, lower emissions and pollution, enhanced natural environment, and increased property values. It promotes a more sustainable future and contributes to the overall social, economic, and environmental well-being of communities.
How do planning and building regulations influence Environmentally Sustainable Design?
Planning and building regulations play a crucial role in promoting Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD). These regulations set out the requirements and provisions for incorporating ESD principles into subdivisions and development projects. They ensure that sustainable practices are followed, and they guide the design and construction process in a way that minimizes environmental impact and maximizes sustainable outcomes.
Who were the partners involved in the project on Environmentally Sustainable Design for Subdivisions in Regional Victoria?
The project on Environmentally Sustainable Design for Subdivisions in Regional Victoria involved a partnership between AECOM and eight regional councils, including Moorabool Shire Council. The goal of this partnership was to explore the feasibility of integrating ESD principles into subdivisions and recommend tools and a collaborative implementation model. Other participating councils included Wodonga City Council, Greater Geelong City Council, and Ballarat City Council.
What are the key recommendations for achieving better Environmentally Sustainable Design outcomes in subdivisions?
The final report proposed several recommendations for better Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) outcomes in subdivisions. These recommendations include developing a tailored approach for greenfield subdivisions in a regional context, supported by education, advocacy, communication, policy, and regulation. The report also provided a roadmap for achieving ESD subdivisions and estimated the benefits of ESD implementation.
What efforts are being made to push for more sustainability design requirements in new developments?
The City of Ballarat and 23 other local governments have lodged a Planning Scheme Amendment to push for more sustainability design requirements in new developments. This joint effort aims to better protect the natural environment, reduce resource and energy consumption, and address the immediate climate change risk. The Council Alliance for a Sustainable Built Environment and the Municipal Association of Victoria also support this initiative.
What is the role of the Environmentally Sustainable Design Advisor in the City of Ballarat?
The City of Ballarat has obtained approval to share an Environmentally Sustainable Design Advisor from the Regional Planning Hub. This advisor will assist with the implementation of the Environmentally Sustainable Design policy and provide education and training within the Statutory Planning team. The advisor’s role is to support the city’s growing focus on environmental and sustainability issues and make homes and workplaces more sustainable and liveable.
What were the weaknesses identified in the planning system for Environmentally Sustainable Design?
The project on Environmentally Sustainable Design for Subdivisions in Regional Victoria identified weaknesses in the planning system, including inadequate state-wide approach and commitment to ESD, current policy objectives lacking local linkages, and weaknesses in planning regulations. Strengthening Clause 56, developing specific local policies, and enhancing guidelines were suggested to address these weaknesses and improve the integration of ESD principles.
What does the draft Moorabool Sustainable Environment Strategy aim to achieve?
The draft Moorabool Sustainable Environment Strategy aims to improve the local environment, reduce water and energy consumption, and meet legislative, strategic, and policy statements. It identifies key priority actions, including the management of Council assets, reduction of water and energy consumption, and the protection and enhancement of the natural environment. Stakeholder input has been gathered to develop the strategy and implementation plan.
What is the vision and priority areas of the proposed Moorabool Sustainable Environment Strategy?
The proposed Moorabool Sustainable Environment Strategy envisions a Shire with healthy ecosystems, productive landscapes, sustainable communities, and the capacity to adapt to future environmental challenges. It identifies twelve priority areas, including greenhouse gas reduction, energy and water conservation, collaboration with Landcare networks, and support for environmental and sustainability initiatives.
What is included in the implementation plan for the Moorabool Sustainable Environment Strategy?
The implementation plan for the Moorabool Sustainable Environment Strategy outlines specific, measurable, and achievable operational actions to achieve the strategy’s objectives. The plan addresses areas such as water and energy consumption, environment management, and community well-being. It will be reviewed and updated for the next planning period to ensure continued progress and improvement.
How has the community been involved in the development of the Moorabool Sustainable Environment Strategy?
The draft Moorabool Sustainable Environment Strategy has undergone workshops and stakeholder consultations to gather input and feedback from internal and external stakeholders. The aim is to ensure that the strategy aligns with community expectations, is implementable, and provides measurable outcomes to protect and enhance the environment in the Shire.
What is the financial commitment of Moorabool Shire Council towards Environmentally Sustainable Design?
The financial implications of implementing the Moorabool Sustainable Environment Strategy will be considered as part of the overall annual budget process. Some actions can be achieved through changes in operational procedures, while larger initiatives may require external funding or capital improvement programs. The Council is committed to investing in sustainability and ensuring a sustainable future for the Shire.
Why is promoting and implementing Environmentally Sustainable Design important?
The efforts of Moorabool Shire Council, along with other regional councils and stakeholders, in promoting and implementing Environmentally Sustainable Design practices are essential for a sustainable future. By integrating ESD principles into subdivisions and development projects, social, economic, and environmental outcomes can be enhanced, leading to a more sustainable and resilient community.
Source Links
- https://www.clearwatervic.com.au/resource-library/case-studies/environmentally-sustainable-design-for-subdivisions-in-regional-victoria.php
- https://www.ballarat.vic.gov.au/news/elevating-environmentally-sustainable-design-across-victoria
- https://www.moorabool.vic.gov.au/files/assets/public/my-council/documents/e-17-08-16-pm-agenda.pdf