About Monkey Baa
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Download the Sustainable Illawarra Flyer here [PDF 431 kB]
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
It has never been more important to find more sustainable ways of living.
The people of the Illawarra have been leading the way in tackling the challenges posed by climate change. We’re taking up practical environmental initiatives like installing rainwater tanks and solar hot water systems. Real families are finding real solutions to real problems.
But sustainability is not just about the natural environment. It is about justice and equality. Peace and cooperation. And a desire to see positive changes to ensure that the wondrous diversity of our Earth’s people, cultures, traditions and landscapes continues into the future.
Sustainability Begins at Home is a new program to help all of us to take on this challenge – the challenge to create a sustainable future together.
join us!
- Find out how little things can make a big difference
- Practical workshops
- Special offers on sustainable products and services
- Inspiring stories from local families
- Special events
- News and information
No matter where you’re at, take the challenge to see just how easy it is to take control of your ecological footprint. You’ll be surprised at how little time it takes to make a difference... and how good it makes you feel!
History
The three Illawarra councils (Wollongong, Shellharbour and Kiama) have been investigating opportunities to establish a more strategic approach to sustainability programs and initiatives delivered to our community. The councils believe that combining their resources and knowledge on sustainability projects will ensure a more consistent message is being delivered to the regions communities.
As a result all three councils put their heads together to apply for a regional grant funded by the NSW State Government’s Environmental Trust. The funding is part of the Department of Environment and Climate Change’s Urban Sustainability Program initiative.
In August 2007 the Environmental Trust approved the Illawarra regions submission with funding of $2.2 million dollars to be rolled out over a three year period.
The project’s vision and purpose is described below.
Vision
The vision for this project is for the Illawarra councils (Wollongong, Shellharbour and Kiama) to balance their social, environmental and economic goals to ensure a sustainable and adaptable future. This will be achieved by:
- Piloting a stormwater harvesting, reuse and irrigation project at one sporting complex within each Council with the view to applying the same systems in all Council sporting fields.
- Preparing a roadmap to facilitate integrated sustainability planning and reporting, and directions for more sustainable practices within the council’s themselves.
- Capacity and resistance will be built into the community through sustainable education programs that will provide the community with skills that will give them an opportunity to lead a practical sustainable lifestyle.