Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) in Greater Geelong City Council

Promoting Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) in Greater Geelong City Council

The City of Greater Geelong is committed to promoting environmentally sustainable design (ESD) and implementing sustainable building solutions. With a focus on eco-friendly architecture and green building practices, we aim to create a more sustainable future for our community. As the local government authority, the Greater Geelong City Council plays a crucial role in shaping the development and construction practices in our region.

Our policy on ESD, approved by the Minister for Planning in September 2019, sets higher standards for sustainable design in residential and commercial buildings. By incorporating sustainable principles into building design and construction, we strive to reduce negative impacts on the environment and improve the overall health and comfort of our buildings. This not only benefits the residents and occupants but also contributes to a more sustainable and resilient city.

Key Takeaways:

  • Greater Geelong City Council is committed to promoting Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) in the region.
  • The policy requires residential and commercial buildings to meet higher standards for sustainable design.
  • ESD standards cover areas such as indoor environment quality, energy efficiency, waste management, and water efficiency.
  • The Sustainable Building Policy guides the management of Council buildings, ensuring they meet minimum sustainability standards.
  • ESD aims to achieve positive economic, social, and environmental outcomes for the community.

The Role of the Sustainable Building Policy

The City of Greater Geelong has implemented a Sustainable Building Policy to ensure that its buildings meet minimum sustainability standards. This policy applies to all buildings owned, leased, or managed by the council, including administrative offices, leisure facilities, libraries, community buildings, and more.

The aim of the policy is to achieve improved sustainability outcomes and benefits for the council, the community, and the environment. It emphasizes financial responsibility and value for money in building design, maintenance, and performance, while considering social, environmental, and economic factors.

Policy Objectives Key Focus Areas
1. Achieve improved sustainability outcomes – Energy efficiency
2. Ensure financial responsibility and value for money – Water efficiency
3. Create healthier workplaces – Waste management
4. Reduce resource consumption – Indoor environment quality
5. Promote eco-friendly architecture Stormwater management

By implementing the Sustainable Building Policy, the City of Greater Geelong ensures that its buildings contribute to a greener and more sustainable future. The policy sets standards for new buildings, renovations, retrofits, maintenance, and minor upgrades. It also encourages specific sustainability projects to further enhance the environmental performance of council buildings.

Through the Sustainable Building Policy, the City of Greater Geelong is taking a proactive approach to promote sustainability and create environmentally friendly buildings that benefit the community while reducing the city’s environmental footprint.

Achieving Sustainable Development Strategies

The City of Greater Geelong is committed to integrating sustainable development strategies into its planning scheme. With the adoption of the Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) policy, the City aims to ensure that new developments in the region meet higher standards for sustainability. By incorporating ESD principles into the planning process, we are proactively promoting eco-friendly architecture, sustainable construction practices, and energy-efficient buildings.

In line with our commitment to sustainable development, the ESD policy encourages developers to seek free advice from an Environmentally Sustainable Design officer before submitting their planning applications. This collaborative approach fosters the sharing of knowledge and expertise, ensuring that sustainable practices are incorporated from the early stages of development.

The Geelong Planning Scheme

The Geelong planning scheme plays a crucial role in facilitating sustainable development. It provides a framework for incorporating ESD principles and standards into the design and construction of new developments. By adhering to the Geelong planning scheme, developers can ensure that their projects align with our vision for a greener and more sustainable future.

Our goal is to create a built environment that minimizes negative impacts on the environment and maximizes the health and well-being of our residents. Through the Geelong planning scheme, we are promoting the use of sustainable building materials, energy-efficient design, and innovative construction practices. By setting higher standards for sustainability, we are shaping a future where development and environmental preservation go hand in hand.

Benefits of Sustainable Development

By integrating sustainable development strategies into the Geelong planning scheme, we are creating a range of benefits for our community. Sustainable buildings contribute to a greener and more sustainable city by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving resources, and minimizing waste. Additionally, these buildings provide healthier and more comfortable environments for residents, improving their quality of life.

Moreover, sustainable development has positive economic outcomes. Energy-efficient buildings can significantly reduce running costs, leading to long-term financial savings. By embracing sustainable practices, we are also fostering innovation and creating new opportunities for businesses in the green economy.

Through the adoption of sustainable development strategies and the integration of ESD principles into our planning scheme, the City of Greater Geelong is taking proactive steps towards building a more sustainable and resilient future for our community.

The Benefits of Environmentally Sustainable Design

Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) offers a range of benefits for both the city and its residents. The implementation of ESD standards in new developments can lead to positive economic, social, and environmental outcomes. By reducing negative environmental impacts, such as greenhouse gas emissions and resource consumption, the city can become more sustainable and resilient. Moreover, ESD promotes healthier and more comfortable buildings, improving the well-being of occupants. Owners can also benefit from reduced running costs and increased overall liveability. The adoption of ESD principles in Greater Geelong City Council demonstrates a commitment to creating a greener, more sustainable future for the community.

With environmentally sustainable design, positive economic outcomes are attainable. Implementing sustainable practices in building design and construction can lead to cost savings in the long run. Energy-efficient buildings, for example, can significantly reduce energy consumption, resulting in lower utility bills. Similarly, water-efficient designs can minimize water usage and reduce costs associated with water supply and treatment. These financial savings can contribute to the economic viability of businesses and individuals while also promoting environmental responsibility.

“Environmentally sustainable design is not only about reducing environmental impacts; it is also about improving the overall quality of our built environment. By integrating sustainable design principles, we can create buildings that are healthier, more comfortable, and more enjoyable to live and work in. This, in turn, enhances the liveability and well-being of our communities.”

In addition to positive economic outcomes, environmentally sustainable design also leads to improved liveability. Sustainable buildings are designed with the well-being of occupants in mind, prioritizing factors such as indoor air quality, natural lighting, and thermal comfort. These elements contribute to a healthier and more enjoyable living and working environment. By creating spaces that promote well-being, environmentally sustainable design enhances the overall quality of life for residents and contributes to a more livable and vibrant community.

Environmental Benefits Economic Benefits Social Benefits
– Reduction in greenhouse gas emissions – Cost savings through energy and water efficiency – Improved well-being and comfort of occupants
– Conservation of natural resources – Increased property value – Enhanced community livability
– Minimization of waste and pollution – Lower operating and maintenance costs – Promotion of sustainable lifestyles

Environmental Benefits

  • Reduction in greenhouse gas emissions
  • Conservation of natural resources
  • Minimization of waste and pollution

Economic Benefits

  • Cost savings through energy and water efficiency
  • Increased property value
  • Lower operating and maintenance costs

Social Benefits

  • Improved well-being and comfort of occupants
  • Enhanced community livability
  • Promotion of sustainable lifestyles

The Scope of the Sustainable Building Policy

The Sustainable Building Policy of the City of Greater Geelong applies to all buildings owned, leased, or managed by the council. It sets minimum sustainability standards for new buildings, renovations and retrofits, building maintenance and minor upgrades, as well as specific sustainability projects. The policy encompasses various types of council buildings, including administrative offices, leisure and aquatic facilities, libraries, community buildings, sports ground pavilions, town halls, child care and health centers, works depots, and more. The aim is to improve sustainability throughout the entire life cycle of council buildings, from concept and design to decommissioning.

Sustainability Standards for Council Buildings

The Sustainable Building Policy ensures that all council buildings meet specific sustainability standards, promoting environmentally responsible practices and reducing negative environmental impacts. The policy sets guidelines for energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, indoor environment quality, and other key aspects of sustainability. By adhering to these standards, the City of Greater Geelong aims to create buildings that perform well and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Implementing Sustainable Design Principles

The Sustainable Building Policy incorporates sustainable design principles into the planning, construction, and operation of council buildings. By integrating these principles into the early stages of development, the City can maximize sustainability outcomes and create buildings that are energy-efficient, water-efficient, and environmentally friendly. Through the application of sustainable design practices, the City of Greater Geelong aims to minimize resource consumption, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and preserve the natural environment.

Commitment to Environmental Responsibility

The City of Greater Geelong is committed to environmental responsibility and recognizes the role that council buildings play in achieving sustainability goals. By implementing the Sustainable Building Policy, the City showcases its dedication to creating a more sustainable future for the community. The policy ensures that council buildings are designed, constructed, and operated in a manner that aligns with best practices in sustainability. Through these efforts, the City aims to set an example for other organizations and inspire positive change in building practices.

Sustainability Standards for Council Buildings
Category Sustainability Standards
Energy Efficiency Buildings must meet specified energy efficiency targets, utilizing energy-efficient lighting, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
Water Conservation Buildings must incorporate water-efficient fixtures and systems, such as low-flow toilets, water-saving taps, and rainwater harvesting systems.
Waste Management Buildings must incorporate waste management systems that prioritize recycling, composting, and waste reduction practices.
Indoor Environment Quality Buildings must provide a healthy and comfortable indoor environment through adequate ventilation, natural lighting, and the use of low-emission materials.
Transportation Buildings must include infrastructure and amenities that encourage sustainable transportation options, such as bike storage, electric vehicle charging stations, and accessible public transit.

Financial Responsibility and Sustainability

The City of Greater Geelong recognizes the importance of financial responsibility in delivering sustainable buildings. We understand that sustainability goes beyond environmental considerations and must also include economic viability. Our Sustainable Building Policy takes a holistic approach, considering the cost of buildings on a whole-life cycle basis. We aim to deliver affordable and value-for-money buildings that achieve improvements in sustainability.

By incorporating financial responsibility into our sustainability initiatives, we ensure that the design features of our buildings are balanced with economic considerations. We believe that sustainable buildings should not only be environmentally friendly but also economically viable. This approach allows us to make cost-effective decisions that have a positive impact on the environment and the community.

Our policy also emphasizes the need to consider ongoing maintenance and performance costs in the design and delivery of new buildings. This ensures that the sustainability benefits of our buildings are maintained over their lifespan. By taking a long-term view, we can create buildings that are not only sustainable at the time of construction but also throughout their operational life.

sustainable buildings

We believe that financial responsibility and sustainability go hand in hand. By considering the economic implications of our decisions, we can create buildings that are not only good for the environment but also for our bottom line. Our holistic approach to sustainability ensures that the City of Greater Geelong is at the forefront of creating environmentally sustainable and economically viable buildings.

Sustainable Building Design and Performance

At the City of Greater Geelong, we prioritize sustainable building design and performance to ensure a greener and more environmentally friendly future. Our Sustainable Building Policy sets stringent standards for both new construction and existing buildings, promoting energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction, and creating healthy and productive environments for occupants.

When it comes to new buildings and major renovations, our policy requires adherence to specific sustainability criteria. Large buildings must achieve a 5 Star Green Star rating, while small buildings are expected to attain an ‘Excellent’ rating on the Sustainable Design Scorecard. Existing buildings are encouraged to maintain a 4 Star NABERS rating or equivalent. These standards ensure that buildings minimize their negative impact on the environment and contribute to a more sustainable community.

“Sustainable building design and performance are crucial in creating a healthier and more sustainable future for Greater Geelong. By implementing stringent standards, we are reducing our carbon footprint and improving the quality of life for our residents and the wider community.” – City of Greater Geelong

Our commitment to sustainable building design and performance goes beyond the initial construction phase. We place equal emphasis on ongoing building maintenance and performance costs, ensuring that sustainability remains a priority throughout the lifecycle of our buildings. By taking a holistic approach to sustainability, we not only create environmentally sustainable buildings but also ensure their long-term economic viability.

The Benefits of Sustainable Building Design and Performance

The integration of sustainable building design and performance brings a multitude of benefits to our community. By reducing energy and water consumption, as well as waste generation, we contribute to the preservation of our natural resources and a healthier environment. Additionally, sustainable buildings provide better indoor air quality, increased occupant comfort, and improved productivity.

From an economic standpoint, sustainable buildings can lead to reduced operating costs, lower energy bills, and increased property value. They also foster innovation and create opportunities for local businesses specializing in green technologies and services. By prioritizing sustainable building design and performance, we are not only creating a greener community but also driving economic growth and supporting the local green economy.

Benefits of Sustainable Building Design and Performance
Reduction in energy and water consumption
Improved indoor air quality and occupant comfort
Increase in property value
Lower operating costs and energy bills
Promotion of innovation and local green businesses

By prioritizing sustainable building design and performance, the City of Greater Geelong is committed to creating a more sustainable and resilient future for our community. Through our rigorous standards and ongoing efforts, we aim to lead by example and inspire others to adopt sustainable practices. Together, we can build a greener, healthier, and more prosperous Greater Geelong.

Sustainable Waste Management: Reducing Waste and Promoting Resource Recovery

In our commitment to building a more sustainable future, the City of Greater Geelong has implemented a comprehensive Waste and Resource Recovery Strategy. This strategy focuses on reducing waste generation and promoting resource recovery initiatives throughout the region.

Our waste reduction efforts aim to minimize the environmental impact of waste disposal and maximize the recovery of valuable resources. Through various programs and initiatives, we encourage the community to adopt sustainable waste management practices and actively participate in recycling and reuse activities.

One of our key initiatives is the Clever Together Project, which promotes waste reduction and resource recovery in both residential and commercial sectors. This project encourages the removal of unused items and the reduction of paper usage, contributing to more sustainable practices in the community. Additionally, we advocate for the implementation of a Container Deposit Scheme to further reduce waste and encourage resource recovery.

Waste and Resource Recovery Initiatives Description
1. Clever Together Project A community-driven initiative that promotes waste reduction and resource recovery through the removal of unused items and the reduction of paper usage.
2. Container Deposit Scheme An advocacy initiative aimed at implementing a scheme that encourages the recycling of containers and reduces waste generation.

Through our Waste and Resource Recovery Strategy, the City of Greater Geelong is actively working towards creating a more sustainable and circular economy. By reducing waste and promoting resource recovery, we aim to minimize the impact on our environment and ensure the responsible management of valuable resources.

We are committed to working together with the community to achieve our waste reduction goals and create a more sustainable future for all residents.

Protecting Biodiversity and Ecosystems

The City of Greater Geelong is committed to prioritizing the protection and enhancement of biodiversity and ecosystems within the region. Through various initiatives and strategies, we aim to safeguard conservation reserves, manage stormwater effectively, and promote sustainable practices that contribute to the overall sustainability and resilience of our environment.

Biodiversity Strategy

The development and review of the Biodiversity Strategy aim to safeguard conservation reserves and indigenous plants.

One of the key actions taken by the City of Greater Geelong is the development and review of the Biodiversity Strategy. This strategy serves as a blueprint for preserving and enhancing the natural habitats and biodiversity within the region. It focuses on safeguarding conservation reserves, protecting indigenous plants, and promoting actions that contribute to the overall health and vitality of our ecosystems.

Sparrovale Wetlands Master Plan

The implementation of the Sparrovale Wetlands Master Plan protects internationally important wetlands in the region.

The City of Greater Geelong has implemented the Sparrovale Wetlands Master Plan to protect and preserve the internationally important wetlands in our region. This plan ensures that the wetlands are managed sustainably, allowing for the conservation of unique and sensitive ecosystems. By protecting these wetlands, we not only preserve their ecological significance but also provide opportunities for the community to engage in environmental education and recreation.

Stormwater Management

The City’s Stormwater Services Strategy guides investment in stormwater management based on community values and objectives.

Effective stormwater management plays a crucial role in protecting our ecosystems and preventing water pollution. The City of Greater Geelong has developed a comprehensive Stormwater Services Strategy that guides investment and action in stormwater management. This strategy takes into consideration community values and objectives, ensuring that our stormwater systems are designed and maintained to promote sustainable outcomes and protect the health of our waterways.

Biodiversity Conservation Stormwater Management
Preservation of conservation reserves Investment in sustainable stormwater systems
Protection of indigenous plants Prevention of water pollution
Engagement in environmental education and recreation Maintenance of healthy waterways

The City of Greater Geelong remains dedicated to protecting the biodiversity and ecosystems within our region. Through the implementation of strategies, such as the Biodiversity Strategy and the Stormwater Services Strategy, we aim to ensure the long-term sustainability and resilience of our natural environment. By prioritizing conservation efforts and promoting sustainable practices, we can create a cleaner and greener future for generations to come.

Creating Cleaner, Greener Community Spaces

The City of Greater Geelong is committed to creating cleaner and greener community spaces through various initiatives. One of the key strategies is the implementation of the Urban Forest Strategy, which aims to increase the number of trees in the city and enhance urban amenity. Trees play a crucial role in improving air quality, reducing urban heat island effect, and providing habitat for wildlife. By investing in nature-based infrastructure and urban greening, the City seeks to create a more sustainable and vibrant environment for its residents.

urban forest strategy

Nature-based infrastructure is another important aspect of creating cleaner and greener community spaces. The City of Greater Geelong recognizes the value of incorporating natural elements, such as water sensitive urban design and green spaces, into the built environment. These nature-based solutions not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the city but also provide numerous benefits, including stormwater management, improved biodiversity, and increased urban amenity. The integration of nature-based infrastructure contributes to a more sustainable and livable city for all.

Benefits of Urban Forests and Nature-based Infrastructure:

  • Improved air quality and reduced pollution
  • Reduced urban heat island effect
  • Enhanced biodiversity and habitat for wildlife
  • Stormwater management and flood mitigation
  • Increased urban amenity and quality of life

“The incorporation of urban forests and nature-based infrastructure enhances the overall sustainability and resilience of the city, creating a healthier and more vibrant environment for residents.” – City of Greater Geelong

By focusing on urban forest strategies and nature-based infrastructure, the City of Greater Geelong aims to create cleaner, greener, and more sustainable community spaces. These initiatives not only contribute to the well-being of residents but also showcase the city’s commitment to environmental stewardship and urban sustainability.

Best Practice in Land Use Planning and Built Environment

The City of Greater Geelong is dedicated to ensuring that land use planning and the built environment adhere to best practices. We believe that incorporating environmentally sustainable design (ESD) principles is essential for creating a more sustainable future. To achieve this, we have developed ESD Action Plans for all precincts within the Northern and Western Growth Areas. These action plans promote sustainable design principles and guide the development of new buildings, renovations, and retrofitting projects.

Our Sustainable Building Policy also plays a crucial role in setting best practice standards for various aspects of building development, including maintenance, minor works, and specific sustainability projects. By implementing these standards, we aim to create buildings that are not only environmentally friendly but also financially viable and provide value-for-money solutions.

Furthermore, our commitment to best practices extends to the 20-year Settlement Strategy, which ensures that housing supply meets the needs of our growing population while incorporating ESD principles. Through these initiatives, we are actively working towards vibrant and sustainable neighborhoods and a more sustainable future for Greater Geelong.

Key Elements of Best Practice in Land Use Planning and Built Environment Benefits
Implementation of ESD Action Plans Guides sustainable design principles
Sustainable Building Policy Sets best practice standards for building development
20-year Settlement Strategy Incorporates ESD principles into housing supply

We believe that adopting best practices in land use planning and the built environment is key to creating a sustainable future for our community. By incorporating environmentally sustainable design and setting high standards for building development, we aim to build a greener and more resilient Greater Geelong.

Collaboration for Sustainable Outcomes

At the City of Greater Geelong, we recognize that collaboration is key to achieving sustainable outcomes for our region. We actively work in partnership with community groups, businesses, and other organizations to promote and educate about sustainable practices. By joining forces, we can create a stronger and more impactful movement towards a greener and more sustainable future.

One of our key collaborative efforts is through alliances such as the G21 and Barwon Greenhouse Alliances. These partnerships bring together local councils and stakeholders to address regional sustainability outcomes. By working together, we can pool resources, share knowledge and expertise, and coordinate efforts to achieve common goals. Through these alliances, we advocate for sustainable practices, influence policy, and drive positive change throughout the region.

Our corporate affairs team also plays a critical role in advocating to other levels of government for funding and services to support sustainable initiatives. We believe that by actively engaging with decision-makers and policymakers, we can secure the necessary support and resources needed to implement sustainable projects and programs. Through our advocacy efforts, we aim to influence policies and regulations that promote sustainability and create an environment conducive to sustainable development.

Collaboration Drives Change

Collaboration is not only about working with external partners; it also extends to fostering collaboration within our organization. We believe that by breaking down silos and encouraging cross-departmental collaboration, we can achieve greater synergy and efficiency in our sustainability efforts. Our various departments and teams work together to share best practices, leverage resources, and drive innovation in sustainability.

“Collaboration is the key to unlocking the full potential of sustainable development. By working together, we can create a brighter and more sustainable future for our region.”

At the City of Greater Geelong, collaboration is ingrained in our values and approach to sustainability. We understand that we cannot achieve our goals alone, and that by collaborating with diverse stakeholders, we can create a powerful force for change. Together, we can build a more sustainable and resilient future for our community and leave a lasting positive impact for generations to come.

Supporting Community Wellbeing and Social Equity

At the City of Greater Geelong, we prioritize the wellbeing and social equity of our community. We believe in fostering sustainable practices that not only benefit the environment but also contribute to a more inclusive and diverse society. Through various programs and initiatives, we strive to create a community that is not only environmentally sustainable but also socially inclusive.

One of our key initiatives is to support local, sustainable food production. We have implemented a Food Policy that promotes the use of local produce, reduces food waste, and ensures access to healthy and affordable food for all residents. By supporting local farmers and encouraging sustainable farming practices, we not only promote community wellbeing but also contribute to a more resilient and sustainable food system.

In addition to promoting sustainable food practices, we also prioritize social inclusion and equity. Our Vital Communities program aims to address social and economic inequity through integrated approaches. By working closely with community groups and organizations, we aim to create opportunities for all residents to thrive. We are dedicated to improving access to services and facilities, promoting gender equity, fostering reconciliation, and addressing the needs of diverse communities within the Greater Geelong region.

Through these efforts, we are building a community that is not only environmentally sustainable but also socially inclusive. We believe that by prioritizing community wellbeing and social equity, we can create a more sustainable future for all residents of Greater Geelong.

Working Towards a Sustainable Future

We are committed to promoting education, fostering a green economy, and developing essential skills to create a sustainable future for the City of Greater Geelong. Through our exhibitions, art, collections, and programs, we educate and inspire the community to adopt more sustainable practices. Our goal is to empower individuals and businesses with the knowledge and tools they need to make environmentally conscious choices.

As part of our efforts to transition to a green economy, we provide tailored support for local businesses and promote innovation in sustainable practices. We understand the importance of addressing skills shortages and creating employment opportunities for a sustainable workforce. That’s why we’ve developed programs such as the Regional Industry Sector Employment (RISE) program, which focuses on upskilling individuals in key industries related to sustainability.

Education and skills development are fundamental to driving positive change and achieving our sustainability goals. By equipping our community with the necessary knowledge and abilities, we empower them to contribute to a more sustainable future for the City of Greater Geelong. Together, we can build a thriving green economy and ensure a sustainable environment for generations to come.

Skills Development Programs

In our commitment to skills development, we offer a range of programs designed to enhance sustainability-related skills and knowledge. These programs include:

  • The Green Skills Program: Providing training and support for individuals seeking employment in sustainable industries such as renewable energy, waste management, and sustainable agriculture.
  • The Sustainable Business Council: Assisting businesses in adopting sustainable practices through training workshops, mentoring programs, and access to funding opportunities.
  • The Sustainability Ambassador Program: Educating and empowering community members to become sustainability advocates in their neighborhoods and workplaces.

The Benefits of a Green Economy

Transitioning to a green economy offers numerous benefits for both the environment and the community. A green economy promotes the efficient use of resources, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and fosters the development of clean and renewable energy sources. By embracing sustainable practices, businesses can enhance their reputation, attract environmentally conscious customers, and gain a competitive edge.

Furthermore, a green economy creates employment opportunities in emerging sectors such as renewable energy, sustainable construction, and waste management. These industries provide stable and fulfilling jobs while contributing to the overall well-being of the community. By investing in skills development and supporting the growth of a green economy, we are building a sustainable future that benefits us all.

Conclusion

The City of Greater Geelong, along with the support of the Greater Geelong City Council, is dedicated to building a sustainable future through Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) and implementing various sustainable development strategies. Our policies and initiatives are designed to create a more sustainable and environmentally friendly city for both residents and businesses.

By focusing on sustainable building design, waste reduction, biodiversity protection, and collaboration with stakeholders, we are actively working towards achieving positive economic, social, and environmental outcomes. Our commitment to ESD principles and the promotion of eco-friendly architecture is reshaping the way we approach construction and building management.

The Greater Geelong City Council recognizes the importance of working together with community groups, businesses, and other organizations to drive sustainable change. Collaboration is key to achieving regional sustainability outcomes and fostering a greener future. We also prioritize community wellbeing and social equity, ensuring that sustainable practices are accessible to all members of our diverse community.

Through education, support for local businesses, and skills development, we are encouraging the transition to a green economy and empowering individuals and organizations to embrace sustainable practices. With our ongoing efforts and holistic approach to sustainability, we are committed to creating a vibrant and sustainable future for the Greater Geelong community.

FAQ

What is Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD)?

Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) refers to the integration of sustainable design principles into the planning and construction of buildings, with the aim of reducing negative impacts on the environment while improving the health and comfort of occupants.

What does the Sustainable Building Policy cover?

The Sustainable Building Policy of the City of Greater Geelong covers 10 key sustainability criteria, including indoor environment quality, transport, energy efficiency, waste management, water efficiency, urban ecology, stormwater management, innovation, building materials, and construction and building management.

Who does the Sustainable Building Policy apply to?

The Sustainable Building Policy applies to new developments in Geelong with three or more dwellings and commercial and mixed-use developments.

What are the benefits of Environmentally Sustainable Design?

Environmentally Sustainable Design offers a range of benefits, including positive economic, social, and environmental outcomes. It reduces negative environmental impacts, improves the health and comfort of occupants, reduces running costs, and creates more liveable environments.

What buildings does the Sustainable Building Policy apply to?

The Sustainable Building Policy applies to all buildings owned, leased, or managed by the City of Greater Geelong, including administrative offices, leisure and aquatic facilities, libraries, community buildings, and more.

How does the City of Greater Geelong ensure financial responsibility in sustainable building design?

The Sustainable Building Policy considers the cost of buildings on a whole-life cycle basis, ensuring that sustainable design features are balanced with economic considerations. It also emphasizes the need for ongoing maintenance and performance costs to be considered in the design and delivery of new buildings.

What standards do new buildings and renovations need to meet?

New buildings and major renovations are required to meet specific sustainability criteria, such as a 5 Star Green Star rating for large buildings and an ‘Excellent’ rating on the Sustainable Design Scorecard for small buildings.

What is the City of Greater Geelong doing to reduce waste and promote resource recovery?

The City has implemented the Waste and Resource Recovery Strategy to reduce waste generation and encourage reuse and recycling. It also focuses on reducing office waste and supporting recycling habits in its worksites through waste-wise programs.

How does the City of Greater Geelong protect biodiversity and ecosystems?

The City develops and reviews the Biodiversity Strategy to safeguard conservation reserves and indigenous plants. It also implements the Sparrovale Wetlands Master Plan to protect internationally important wetlands and follows the Stormwater Services Strategy to guide investment in stormwater management based on community values and objectives.

What initiatives does the City of Greater Geelong have to create cleaner and greener community spaces?

The City has the Urban Forest Strategy in place to increase tree planting and provide opportunities for community planting. It also establishes nature-based infrastructure to enhance urban amenity, reduce urban heat, and connect people to nature.

How does the City of Greater Geelong promote best practice in land use planning and the built environment?

The City develops Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) Action Plans for all precincts within the Northern and Western Growth Areas to promote sustainable design principles. It also implements the Sustainable Building Policy to set best practice standards for new buildings, renovations, and retrofitting.

How does the City of Greater Geelong collaborate with other stakeholders to achieve sustainable outcomes?

The City works in partnership with community groups, businesses, and other organizations to promote and educate about sustainable practices. It also engages with other councils through alliances, such as G21 and Barwon Greenhouse Alliances, to achieve regional sustainability outcomes. Additionally, the City’s corporate affairs team advocates to other levels of government for funding and services to support sustainable initiatives.

How does the City of Greater Geelong prioritize community wellbeing and social equity?

The City prioritizes community wellbeing and social equity through exhibitions, art, collections, and programs that educate and inspire the community to live more sustainably. It supports local, sustainable food production through the implementation of a Food Policy. The City also addresses social and economic inequity through programs like the Vital Communities program and focuses on improving access to services and facilities, promoting gender equity, fostering reconciliation, and addressing the needs of diverse communities.

How does the City of Greater Geelong support education and skills development for sustainable practices?

The City provides education and inspiration for the community to live more sustainably through exhibitions, art, collections, and programs. It supports local businesses in transitioning to a green economy and addresses skills shortages through programs like the Regional Industry Sector Employment (RISE) program.

What is the overall goal of the City of Greater Geelong’s sustainability efforts?

The City of Greater Geelong aims to create a more sustainable future for its residents and businesses by promoting Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD), implementing sustainable development strategies, and prioritizing positive economic, social, and environmental outcomes.

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