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HOW WE STARTED
Environs Australia (Environs) was formed in 1989 and has since been at the forefront of sustainability in Australia. Environs is a network for professional members interested in promoting sustainable development through local action, primarily in the local government sector. The strength of the network lies in its members sharing their knowledge, learning and successes to build sustainability at a local scale. As an organisation we also strive to constructively advocate to all levels of Government for improved sustainability outcomes. Environs membership includes individuals, organisations and Councils from all states and territories across Australia. Many of these members have supported the network since it began and Environs is keen to grow this network through membership and tackling issues confronting us, the most recent being Carbon Pricing.
WHERE WE ARE NOW
To continue this work Environs has formed a new alliance with Parks and Leisure Australia (the peak national industry association for organisations and individuals who’s work involves parks, natural areas, open space, leisure and recreation facilities). We are now well placed to further the objectives of Environs as both organisations have a strong focus on improving our environment with overlapping memberships in local government, biodiversity, conservation & land management.
STILL RELEVANT
After the 1992 world summit in Rio, Environs took an active role in bringing Local Agenda 21 to Councils around Australia, delivering training and support programs to lift awareness and understanding. Since then Environs has continued to promote sustainability innovation to Australian local government. Environs was instrumental in bringing Cities for Climate Protection to Australia in 1997, and in developing the Biodiversity Toolbox for Local Government. In 2002 Environs led an Australian Local Government delegation to the Local Government session of the World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg South Africa. Environs is an organisation that has been within the Australian sustainability sector for 20 years. Environs is now expanding its alliances to further its objectives and consolidate its position as a leading organisation in relation to sustainability matters. With the alliance with Parks and Leisure Australia, the potential in gaining integrated environmental outcomes in the areas of energy management, biodiversity and overall community wellbeing are enormous.
NEW BOARD
A new board has been established for Environs Australia with a strong and varied background that includes past board members as well as some new faces.
Kevin Lowe (President) (SA)
Stephen Bourke (Vice President / Secretary) (NSW)
Andrew Smith (Treasurer) (SA)
Toni Bowler (Qld)
Ron Degenhart (Qld)
David Keenan (Vic)
Kate Lempriere(Vic)
Linda Smith (Vic)
Nick Walker (Vic)
WHAT’S NEXTThe new Board is keen to continue the good work of previous boards and members in progressing all aspects of sustainability and communicating these to the broader local government sector. Over the next 12 months the new board will be revisiting the vision, current resources, information, awards and web page to become the peak organisation for local government and other people employed in the sustainability sector.
The key aims and objectives continue to be:
• Establish a strong and vibrant network that connects people working in the sustainability sector.
• Provide regular updates on key issues in sustainability
• Create a quarterly journal that will inform people on best practice and case studies that have been successfully implemented across Australia.
• Continue to remain involved in the Local Government Sustainability conference sector through partnering, using alliances and ensuring that the highest quality speakers are encouraged to present their ideas.
• Continue to promote the Environs Australia Sustainability Awards through our alliances Read more...
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