What is a sustainable community?

A sustainable community:

is healthy and safe
uses resources sensibly and fairly
enables everyone to play a part
has a vibrant local economy
minimises waste and pollution
has its own unique character
respects the diversity of people who live in it
cares for plants and animals that share the community

A vision of a sustainable community
Move your cursor across the images and read the statements below

...everybody has access to affordable health, food, water, shelter and fuel

… we protect people's good health in a safe and clean environment; Heath services have prevention of illness as a top priority as well as good care for the sick.

...we don't create pollution that nature can't deal with

… we all feel safe from personal violence, crime and persecution.

… culture, leisure and recreation are affordable and available to us all. Green spaces are valued as essential for our wellbeing

… we are not forced to travel far to use facilities, services or goods or to work. Access is not limited to people using cars.

… local products and services meet people's needs wherever possible. Movement of goods and energy use is kept to a minimum.

… we all have access to the skills and knowledge we need to play a full part in society. Everyone has real opportunities to take part in decision-making.

… we all have the chance to do satisfying work for fair pay. Unpaid work is recognised.

… our local places are ours and we have a pride in them.

… we use resources wisely, reduce waste and recycle unavoidable waste into something useful. We don't' dump rubbish!

… improving our quality of life doesn't depend on exploitation of other people or of the environment

… we appreciate the importance of variety, both in nature and our communities. Variety really is the spice of life!

Move your cursor across the images above to learn more about the main elements that must come together to create a sustainable community.