As part of its ongoing commitment to environmental leadership, Surf Coast Shire Council has adopted an updated policy to drive environmentally sustainable design (ESD) in its assets and infrastructure, aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, building in climate adaptation considerations, and improving social sustainability.
The Sustainable Design Policy supports the delivery of the Climate Emergency Response Plan 2021-2031. It ensures that the Council's buildings and infrastructure meet ESD standards.
The revised policy broadens the scope of the initial policy to include civil works and open space projects and has an increased focus on climate resilience. The policy also aligns with targets and actions in the newly adopted Circular Economy Action Plan.
The policy sets minimum ESD standards for buildings owned, leased, or managed by Council as well as civil works programs and open space projects.
Objectives for the revised Sustainable Design Policy:
- Demonstrate environmental leadership and climate action
- Ensure new Council facilities, upgrades, and renewals generate positive environmental outcomes
- Ensure all new major Council facilities are carbon neutral over their lifecycle
- Promote the efficient use of resources and transition away from fossil fuels
- Reduce ongoing management costs and improve facility user comfort, health, and productivity
- Promote renewable energy generation and best practice stormwater quality outcomes
- Ensure waste avoidance, reuse, and recycling during construction and operations
- Promote innovation in the delivery of Council facilities, civil works, and open space projects.
Cr Mike Bodsworth said, "Council is proud to adopt this revised Sustainable Design Policy as we are keen to increase our environmental leadership."
"This updated policy shows our commitment to environmental sustainability and climate resilience and ensures all Council buildings and infrastructure projects meet higher environmental standards, contributing to a more sustainable and climate resilient future."
This revised policy looks at changing how expenditure and effort have been worked in the past and recognises the significant greenhouse gas emissions related to the construction and operation of buildings.
"This updated policy is designed to ensure Council facilities and infrastructure are designed to meet the challenges of the future, while promoting a healthier, more sustainable environment for our community," said Cr Bodsworth.
