Sustainability

“Sustainability” can be described as “Meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.” Put another way, it comprises living within environmental limits in a just society. Cheshire East Borough Council seeks to achieve this by seeking to follow the principles of:

• Living within environmental limits
• Achieving a sustainable economy
• Ensuring a strong, healthy and just society

All Council services have a contribution to make. For example, whilst the choice of vehicles, their size, type of fuel and fuel economy are an obvious matter where the effect on sustainability would be a key consideration, the proximity of housing proposals to town centres, schools, medical facilities and shops and the need or otherwise for travel are also relevant.

”Well-being” is most clearly associated with social factors, such that Fair Trade, fuel poverty, and public health are also relevant. Local sourcing of goods and services, not only by the local authority, can lead to higher local investment and employment, as well as fewer miles and lower emissions by delivery vehicles.

For a comprehensive overview of the issues, guidance and best practice associated with environmental sustainability, the Environment Advisory Service website includes information on a whole range of topics including biodiversity, climate change, building practices and waste and material resources.

Consideration of the effects and links to sustainability is not confined to the actions of The Borough Council. It must include the wider borough-wide community, and the Council will seek to work in partnership at every opportunity.

Pages in this section seek to describe what the Council is doing to further “Sustainability” and address climate changes challenges locally in the Borough of Cheshire East.