Sustainability in Noosa: A living change case study

The sustainability agenda is gaining significant ground amongst communities and governments at all levels. However, it is within the realms of local government that most of the progress towards sustainability has occurred. In order to showcase the achievements of one particular local government, a case study was commissioned by the Australian Government Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts on the successes of the Noosa community.

Undertaken by the Australian Research Institute in Education for Sustainability (ARIES), the case study set out to identify current practice in sustainability in Noosa Shire by interviewing several Noosa Council staff members, the Noosa Shire Mayor, and other community members who have played a significant part in Noosa's sustainability journey. The study revealed a community, led by a strong local council, willing to take the steps necessary to achieve a socially, environmentally and economically sustainable way of life. In particular, the study highlighted a necessity to:

1. Plan for sustainability – through plans that synthesise the goals of sustainability and the values of the community
    
2. Engage the community in sustainability – to increase learning and capacity building
    
3. Have good leadership for sustainability – to maintain the course
    
4. Build partnerships for sustainability – to maintain commitment from the community and Council
    
5. Practice sustainability – implement the plans and learn from your experiences. Strive to continuously improve.