Twenty-eight Victorian councils and the Council Alliance for a Sustainable Built Environment (CASBE) are collaborating on a joint research project that aims to elevate Environmentally Sustainable Development (ESD) targets for new development.
According to the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV), the project demonstrates collaborative local government leadership in the pursuit of resilient and zero-carbon buildings and urban places.
The project is Stage 1 in a two-stage process and aims to deliver robust evidence for the Stage 2 planning amendment process.
The 28 Victorian councils and the MAV, representing the (CASBE), recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding for Stage 1.
Stage 1 aims to develop an evidence base for:
- new developments that produce zero net emissions, better manage water and waste, increase greening and biodiversity, and are more resilient to the changing climate, and
- buildings that provide a healthier, more comfortable environment for the community and improve health outcomes.
Undertaking the project collaboratively, not only enables councils to share the costs but also the knowledge gained.
Collaboration across local government areas will also provide clarity and consistency for the development community.
The Elevating Targets Working Group, comprising officers from CASBE, Yarra, Moreland and Port Phillip City Councils and Mitchell Shire Council will manage the project on behalf of the twenty-eight participating councils.
The Project Group are currently preparing a cost benefit analysis, ESD feasibility study, and a planning and legal review.
