2019-02-18 GC Agenda Att 1 to Item 8 - Draft Environment Strategy

The Big Picture
Valuing our environment
There is a deep and intrinsic connection between all living things and their environment – plants,
humans and other animals. In appreciating that connection, humans may find a sense of harmony
and peace. From the tiniest detail in the veins of a leaf to our expansive landscapes, we can be
inspired by the beauty, complexity and richness of our environment. The Traditional Owners of the
Noosa area, the Kabi Kabi (Gubbi Gubbi), had a deep understanding and appreciation of this
important connection over millennia. This understanding continues today.

Noosa’s environment encompasses our natural assets, landscapes and unique biodiversity,
including the physical and biological surrounds in which plants, people and other animals live and
interact. It is also includes the built environment we create and the choices we make about how we
move around, live and work in our environment.

There are ecological and biophysical processes that we depend on for healthy ecosystems and
human wellbeing such as productive soils for food supply, clean drinking water, clean air and natural
areas for recreation. These requirements underpin the local economy, lifestyle and community
health. Protecting, managing and enhancing our biodiversity, landscape corridors, waterways,
coastal ecosystems, marine systems and rural landscapes will provide for a more healthy and
resilient future.


Building on our successes
Through strong partnerships between Council and the community, Noosa has established a
successful basis from which to carefully manage the natural environment, and in turn drive
successful economic and sustainable living outcomes.

Noosa’s strengths and successes include:
    A long-standing shared vision and active community support built around valuing the
       natural environment and sustainable ways of living. This has been embraced by the broad
       community and successive recent councils. Like-minded individuals and families are
       attracted to live in Noosa and make conscious environmental choices in their homes and
       businesses where they can.
    Effective engagement and partnerships with the community. This collaboration helps to
       turn sustainability principles into real action. Having common values, understanding and
       knowledge builds the capacity of the community to be strong advocates. Noosa has a highly
       engaged community, high rate of volunteerism and many enthusiastic community groups
       that help deliver important on-ground projects, as well as important research, education and
       advocacy.
    Council’s clear principles around sustainability and environment standards, including
       strong controls on vegetation clearing and land use through the Noosa Planning Scheme.
    Careful management of growth and development and a commitment to a sustainable
       population based on environmental protection, biophysical constraints, infrastructure and
       lifestyle preferences.
    Attention to detail in planning and building design focused on balance with the natural
       environment. This has helped develop Noosa’s strong sense of place, identity and scenic
       amenity.



Noosa Shire Environment Strategy                                                              Page 8