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Sustainability
Sustainably is a concept that has varying definitions, but essentially is centred on the statement that the 'needs of current and future generations are met through the integration of environmental protection, social advancement and economic prosperity.'
In an effort to achieve sustainable outcomes across the City, a coordinated approach is required. The approach needs to pull together existing Council policies, initiatives and projects to improve the Council's current response to sustainability. The ultimate goal is that sustainability be at the heart of all that the Council undertakes, rather than be seen as a separate peripheral issue.
In 2008/2009, the City undertook a study into how well it is planning for and managing the sustainability of its community.
The study indentified 20 indicators of sustainability that were within the scope of works of the City, such as the provision of recreational facilities and the management of the natural environment. These indicators were used to assess current City strategies, to determine if programs implemented within these strategies were undertaken using sustainable practices. An Action Plan was then designed to guide the City in taking actions to progress Rockingham towards a more sustainable community.
Part of the next step is to undertake public consultation on the findings of the study with the aim of developing an overall Sustainability Strategy that guides Council's decision making.
Sustainability education
The Environment Planning Team has launched a 'Sustainability Education Program' aimed at raising awareness of sustainability issues. Community education is seen as an important means by which to convey the sustainability message.
In 2008, the Environmental Planning Team undertook an education program involving local primary schools. The program was designed to engage students on key environmental topics. Each week, over a school term, a City Officer undertook a number of class lessons on four different environment topics. This program received positive feedback from those involved, however, it required considerable Officer time, and as a result, only a few schools could participate.
In light of this, the Environmental Planning Team developed an all encompassing 'Sustainability Education Program' designed to facilitate 'teacher-led' sessions. This Program, as outlined in the City's 'Sustainability Education' booklet, was launched in July 2009 at Singleton Primary School. A copy of the information booklet is available below:
The 'Sustainability Education Program' will be available to all schools in Term One of the 2010 school year.
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