Geelong has been working with the One Planet Living framework over the last two years and its recognition is based on its existing performance and current sustainability strategies and policies. The framework is based on ten easy-to-grasp principles that enable organisations to plan for, deliver and communicate sustainable development.
Its Environmental Management Strategy, for example, outlines the city’s priorities: demonstrating Council leadership, which includes decreasing greenhouse emissions and supporting renewable energy; fostering the development of a greener economy; and enhancing natural areas and ecosystem health.
The City Council has also implemented numerous projects, which contribute to its journey towards One Planet Living. These include:
- Construction of the 5 star Green Star rated Geelong Library and Heritage Centre
- Implementation of the Low Carbon Growth Plan
- New cycling facilities across Geelong and adoption of the Principle Bicycle Network
- Adoption of the Urban Forest Strategy
The One Planet Living ‘Gap Analysis’ and ‘National Certification’ was undertaken by Innate Ecology.
Ben Gill, International Technical Manager for One Planet Communities, says: “The City of Greater Geelong has shown great leadership and vision on how local government can actually head the charge on sustainability by assessing themselves against the only metric that really matters – one planet living.”
He adds: “We look forward to following Geelong’s progress as the city works towards reaching its targets for 2030 and encourage them to align these targets as closely as possible to the metrics of the planet.”
Andy Richards, Councillor at Geelong City Council, comments: “We are consuming resources and polluting the planet at a level the Earth cannot sustain, so pursuing best practice environmental practices such as One Planet Living are of utmost importance.”
He adds: “We look forward to continuing great partnerships with our community and encourage everyone to join us by adopting the principles for your home, business, organisation or community group.”
Image: Presentation of OPL Certificate to City of Greater Geelong
From Left to right: Rodney Thomas (Manager, Environment & Natural Resources, City of Greater Geelong), Russell Fisher (Chair, Bioregional Australia Foundation), Cr. Andy Richards (Councillor, City of Greater Geelong), Suzette Jackson (Executive Officer, Innate Ecology and Bioregional Australia Foundation Representative), Marc Mullins (Education Officer, Environment and Natural Resources, City of Greater Geelong).
Further information can be found at Bioregional
Innate Ecology 