Community to guide sustainability framework and action plan

COMMUNITY members and industry experts have an opportunity to focus on environmental, social and economic strategies to support the implementation of the City of Greater Geelong’s Sustainability Framework and Action Plan.

Twelve members will form the Sustainability Advisory Committee and use their expertise to provide feedback to council on sustainability issues.
“Forming this committee aligns with several Sustainability Framework objectives, including the Council and City being guided by the needs and expectations of our community,” Mayor Stephanie Asher said.

“We had a lot of feedback from passionate individuals and groups who clearly want to be involved in our sustainable future.”

The Sustainability Framework and Action Plan were adopted in July this year. The framework brings three key priorities of sustainability together for the first time at the city: focusing equally on environmental, social and economic strategies, plans and actions, while the action plan aims to make the framework a reality through key short, medium and long-term initiatives.

Expressions of interest will start in November, with positions available for 12 members on three-year terms.

“Our region is home to so many knowledgeable and experienced community members, so I encourage all those with an interest in sustainability to put their hand up for the committee in November,” Cr Asher said.

The city will search for members with a range of environmental management, social and community planning and financial and risk analysis expertise. At least one representative must have expertise or experience in environmental issues.

Public consultation on the framework and action plan generated significant interest from the community. The Terms of Reference have been developed to support the community’s continued involvement and feedback as the framework is implemented.

The formation of this committee has come about as a result of a request from the council when it adopted the Sustainability Framework.