Sustainable living is about promoting social, economic and environmental wellbeing all at the same time. The aim is to improve the quality of life for people today as well as thinking about those who will live after us.
This means achieving social and economic progress but without depleting or damaging the resources in the natural environment that actually support our own survival. As the saying goes:
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“We do not inherit the world from our parents: we borrow it from our children” |
Since 1992 there have been two ‘Earth Summits’ which looked at the problems facing our planet as a whole, such as alleviating poverty, climate change and rainforest destruction. However, it has also been acknowledged that small, local actions by all of us at work and at home can play their part in making measurable improvements and in showing appreciation and respect for our local environment.
Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council is committed to working towards sustainable development as set out in its Sustainability Policy. Sustainable Development is further incorporated in the Community Strategy 'Pride in our Place' which has been produced by the Local Strategic Partnership providing a vision to improve quality of life for everyone who lives, works in or visits the area.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
Even the smallest of actions can make a difference. Simple changes like not using your car on a short journey, not leaving the tap on whilst cleaning your teeth, buying fresh produce from local suppliers or growing your own are just a few ways that we can all make a difference.
Here is some more information and advice on the many easy ways you can do your bit – however small! Or work out your carbon footprint and compare with the national average.
For further ways to do your bit try the following links: www.globalactionplan.org.uk or www.doingyourbit.org.uk and
http://www.fairtrade.org.uk/
Recycle unwanted furniture locally at http://www.cfpbasingstoke.org/
Respecting the environment is not just about protecting your local area, it is also about enjoying what it has to offer. Support your local producers and visit the popular Hampshire Farmers' Market. For more information look at http://www.basingstoke.gov.uk/business/farmmarket/ or http://www.hampshirefarmersmarkets.co.uk/
To find out what else you can enjoy in the local area visit our leisure section.
Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council has produced a Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan in order to work with the Basingstoke & Deane community to show that everyone can play their part at home and work to help cut the carbon emissions that are causing climate change.
See the presentation below for information on Energy and Climate Change in Basingstoke & Deane.