Green Streets is Australia’s first integrated sustainable mainstreet program. This unique program fuses economic, environmental, social and cultural elements to create sustainable behaviour change within the small to medium business sector. The aims of the program are to reduce both the costs and associated environmental impacts of the small business sector by raising awareness of environmental issues, finding solutions and inspiring action.
In doing so, businesses are actively involved in co-creating sustainable, vibrant communities. With major sponsorship from City West Water and support from the City of Yarra, Green Streets was piloted in Smith Street in Collingwood, Victoria between September 2003 and September 2004. The program subsequently ran in Lugarno with funding and support from Hurstville City Council, New South Wales. Both programs have achieved significant results across all areas.
“Over the last 12 months, although business has increased by 30% we have reduced our water bills by 22% and gas bills by 11%,” said Stuart Lucca-Pope from Bebida Café in Smith Street.
A large part of the program focuses on the building of relationships between traders, Council, utilities, stakeholders and the local community. This is essential if lasting behaviour change is to occur and sets up a platform for increased social and cultural activity. In 2005, a new Green Streets program will run in the City of Moonee Valley, Victoria.
Green Streets is managed by Village Well, one of Australia’s foremost communication and cultural change organisations specialising in mainstreet renewal. For more information on the program visit greenstreets.com.au or email info@villagewell.org for a Green Streets information pack.
* Copy supplied by Village Well
