The following key principles[1] are essential for understanding the relationships within these systems and responding accordingly in securing a sustainable future:- That nature is appropriately valued and appreciated in decision making; risk is dealt with transparently and systematically; environmental goals are integrated into policy and activities; the concept of ‘sustainable communities’ is entrenched through effective participation by communities in developmental processes; Decisions consider long term implications in ensuring inter-generational equity; The principle of continuous improvement is achieved through a commitment to improving practice, and that good governance is essential for achieving all of the preceding .
This theme aims to “improve the above understanding and its application into all aspects of economic activity, from policy through to planning, implementation and operations” through the following specific objectives:
- To increase the understanding of sustainability through appropriate research, dissemination and training.
- To empower government, business, and society through the development of new and the refinement of existing tools and systems, to make sustainability thinking the foundational basis for everything we do.
- To provide a wide range of services that demonstrate the benefits of the sustainability approach to all sectors of society and empower them to improve their contribution to environmental sustainability.