Case study: Review of council strategies against ecological footprint
Client: Middlesbrough Council
Recognising the environmental limits of consumption and the implications of climate change, Middlesbrough Council are in the process of setting an inspiring vision and commitment to working towards genuine sustainability. Following a series of workshops with the council, BioRegional examined the ecological footprint of Middlesbrough using the REAP modelling methodology. Existing council policies and targets were then considered to see their effect on ecological footprint, together with scenario modelling to investigate what a one planet living borough may look like.
Presenting these findings and the one planet living approach to various departments across Middlesbrough Council was an inspiring and valuable exercise, helping teams across the council to work together using a fresh approach that sets clear visions and a shared goal in sustainability.
Middlesbrough Council recognise that the roadmap to achieving one planet living carries many opportunities for helping the residents of Middlesbrough lead healthy and happy lifestyles. These include increased jobs, health and social benefits and the ability to have affordable lifestyles in a secure and sustainable environment. The Council are now working to incorporate the one planet living vision and principles across Council operations, policy, and strategy.
Date of completion: April 2009
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