Background:
The initiative is the result of a three-year nation-wide collaborative and consultative process that identified a need for a cross-sectoral network of individuals, groups and organisations working for sustainability, and the establishment of a national centre to support such a network.
Around 300 groups and individuals have already registered to participate in the proposed Network. The Centre will be located in the National Capital at one of a number of sites being discussed with the National Capital Authority and the ACT Government. Both bodies have made strong commitments of support to the Centre.
Vision
The Australian National Sustainability Initiative will offer a national resource that continually introduces new perspectives, facilitates partnerships and promotes diverse approaches in working towards sustainability. This initiative aims to develop a new kind of facility and network that complements and supports existing community activities and stimulates new ones. It will accelerate progress towards a just, healthy and ecologically sustainable Australia, and provide a model for establishment of future regional centres.
Findings
Through a collaboration and consultation process we found a growing consensus in Australia that many of our current practices and systems of development are unsustainable. The capacity exists to remedy these problems, as we move toward a more humane and sustainable future that:
- addresses the causes as well as the symptoms of unsustainable practices
- brings together the wealth of local and expert knowledge in this country to redesign our systems and practices
- works to maximise collaboration between governments, business, academic disciplines and the wider community.
The process found strong support for the Sustainability Network and for a National Sustainability Centre to support this network and provide facilities for organisations and individuals to come together in working for a more sustainable society.
The Network
The seeds of the Network are in place, and will mature into an interactive, well-resourced knowledge sharing and communication system. The nucleus will be an online community for all groups and individuals involved in sustainability-related activities in Australia. It will provide a central reference point and educational resource on sustainability issues, stimulate collaboration, facilitate dissemination of sustainability innovations and practical applications, and provide research support for the community, business and government.
The Centre
The Centre will be a model eco-development located in the National Capital. Its buildings will demonstrate an advanced standard of ecologically sustainable architecture, and provide an opportunity to showcase emerging sustainable technologies.
The buildings will accommodate many activities, such as an education centre, conference space, work spaces for organisations, exhibitions of innovative technologies and displays from various regions. The focus will be on integrating the arts, sciences and humanities in the service of sustainability, with areas for family recreation, education and nature walks; with structures that generate their own power, catch and treat their own water and sewerage, and contribute to biodiversity and ecosystem services.
Sustainable office building
Due to strong expressions of interest, a landmark sustainable office building is likely to be included for Canberra-based firms or government agencies that wish demonstrate their commitment to sustainability. Such a building would be located either in an office precinct, such as the CBD or at the same location as the Centre.
We encourage you to participate.
Last updated March 24, 2004
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What's New: |
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Network Live: CLICK HERE |
ANSI Action Plan: |
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Please download our draft action plan - Network details will be updated shortly. |
