Natural sustainability
This part of the guide covers how even the smallest organisation can become more environmentally sustainable.
Ecological sustainability
Ecological sustainability is often what we mean when we say 'sustainability'. It is being treated more urgently as evidence mounts for global warming. But what can be done on a local and community level?
Even the smallest organisation can work to leave as light a “carbon footprint” as possible on the Earth, find renewable energy sources, start recycling, carry out waste audits and implement water conservation.
This part of the guide shows how you can:
- Reduce carbon emissions
- Conduct a waste audit
- Reduce use of energy/use renewable energy
- Deal with hazards
- Use water wisely
- Recycle more
You'll find this information in the pages called 'Natural' under Resources, Websites etc. 'Natural Resources' is a good place to start.
'Triple bottom line' reporting
“Urban sustainability means more than appropriate relationships with the physical world – a just social environment is essential – social equity, safety and proper sense of justice in resource allocation and life chances”, (from Living Space by Claire Freeman and Michelle Thompson-Fawcett)(1).
Leaders of progressive companies are committing to ecological, social responsibility and ethical/human issues, measured by 'triple bottom line' reporting. This covered in the Economic page.
Introductions to other key aspects
Economic - introduction
Human - introduction
Review and renewal- introduction
Back to overall Introduction
References
Living Space: towards sustainable settlements in New Zealand.
Editors: Claire Freeman and Michelle Thompson-Fawcett.
University of Otago Press,
ISBN: 1 877276 45 6
Available through Dept of Internal Affairs library