FAQ
Why does Council need an Environmental Sustainability Strategy
Through the Environmental Sustainability Strategy, Council seeks to set out strategic directions, priorities, actions, community / organisational indicators and departmental responsibility for delivery of environmental sustainability outcomes that contribute to making a City:
- where the natural environment is protected and enhanced
- that encourages safe, active and social opportunities
- that has effective public and active transport systems
- which promotes a diverse economy that is resilient and adaptable to change
- which supports connected communities that provide a sense of belonging
- that is creative and supports new technologies and ways of thinking; and
- involves decision-making with the community through shared responsibility and governance.
How has the draft Strategy been developed?
The Lake Macquarie community has already provided significant feedback and insight into the environmental sustainability themes and issues of importance through a range of methods including the Environmental Attitudes Survey, Community Satisfaction Survey, and community engagement for the Community Strategic Plan 2017-2027. This information was used to inform development of the draft Environmental Sustainability Strategy. This further engagement activity is to seek feedback on the draft Environmental Sustainability Strategy and Action Plan and ascertain how effective our proposed management actions will be in addressing the issues identified under each strategic theme.
What's new from the previous Environmental Sustainability Action Plan
The review of Council’s Environmental Sustainability Action Plan 2014-2023 is to better align Council’s framework for sustainable planning, decision-making and action with the City’s new vision and values, as outlined in the Community Strategic Plan 2017-2027.
This Strategy further establishes Council's role as a key stakeholder to create a city committed to the localisation of the global United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted in September 2015 by 193 United Nations member states and ratified by the Australian Government describes 17 SDGs of which 13 goals, consistent with the City's Vision and Values, have been utilised in the development of this Strategy. The SDGs provide a framework for the integration of environmental, social, economic and governance pillars of sustainability into local government responsibilities. This Strategy's management actions are mapped across these pillars and the relevant SDGs in recognition of their importance in driving local sustainable and inclusive development.
How do I help contribute to developing the Strategy
A survey, accessible via Council’s engagement portal shape.lakemac.com.au, will be the primary method of communication. This will run from 13 December 2019 - 6 March 2020. As part of the survey participants can also submit qualitative feedback on the proposed management actions identified to address current environmental issues.