What we are doing

Learn more about the projects and initiatives Woollahra Council are undertaking to ensure a sustainable future.

What you can do

Learn easy ways to protect our environment, save money on water and energy bills and find out about available rebates to help you on your way.

What is sustainability?

A process or activity is considered sustainable if it can be carried out now and into the future, while still preserving biodiversity and natural ecosystems.

For all communities, the challenge of sustainability is to consider future generations in the decisions we make today. Decisions which deplete natural resources or produce wastes beyond the regenerative capacity of the planet may jeopardise their ability to enjoy this planet as we have.

Climate change has been described as the biggest challenge facing our time. It has been argued that the threat of climate change comes as we continue to use our planet's resources in an unsustainable way. It has therefore never been more important for us to ensure we are being careful with our natural resources and not exploiting what our environment provides.

Learn more about climate change.

Our local response

A sustainable Woollahra is one that meets the needs of the present, without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own environmental, economic and social needs.

The principles that guide Woollahra's development forward are based upon the Principles for Sustainable Cities devised as part of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP). These principles provide a sound way forward both globally and locally and will help us both become more sustainable, and mitigate and adapt to impacts of climate change. Council's adopted community strategic plan, Woollahra 2025 - our community, our place, our plan (PDF), recognises the importance of these principles.

Developing a truly Sustainable Woollahra requires effort from both Council and residents. Together our joint actions will ensure that the beautiful environment we enjoy today will be around for many more generations to enjoy.