Continually leading
Promoting a high quality of life for present and future generations
Sustainability is increasingly on the minds of everyone, and we are all faced with the challenge of promoting better resource management, long term economic prosperity and social responsibility. The purpose of this forum is to present the many ways in which the principles of sustainability are being researched, designed and implemented in Strathcona County.
While the definition of sustainable development may seem simple, Strathcona County’s sustainability initiatives touch upon diverse themes that cut across all County departments.
In our efforts to work towards a sustainable future, Strathcona County has adopted a unique approach to guide our decision making and the development of initiatives.
Our approach to sustainable development
Strathcona County is guided by our Strategic Plan and three Sustainability Frameworks
A variety of approaches have been taken by different organizations in working towards a sustainable future. When Strathcona County first began to form a comprehensive sustainable development strategy, it became clear that a triple bottom line approach would be the best guide to our commitment to sustainability.
To further this commitment to sustainability, the County is in the process of developing three strategic frameworks to address the three pillars of sustainable development. Our Social Sustainability Framework and Environmental Sustainability Framework have been adopted by Council, and we are currently developing the Economic Sustainability Framework.
In addition to developing these strategic frameworks, Strathcona County's Municipal Development Plan has been revised to reflect our commitment to sustainability. The revised Municipal Development Plan incorporates the four principles of the Natural Step and the SUN LIVING approach to building sustainable urban neighbourhoods.
Strathcona County also works with the strategies adopted by our regional, provincial and national governments. Along with twenty-five neighbouring municipalities, Strathcona County is part of a regional government body, the Capital Region Board. The Capital Region Board is currently working on a number of projects that will have implications for the long term growth and development of the region. Seeing as we share air, water, land and community services with our neighbours, developing policies at this regional level is essential.
Last updated: Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Page ID: 4584