Ecosystems

Valuing native and endemic flora and fauna as well as landscapes as part of a wider ecosystem

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Valuing the retention and provision of key ecosystems and significant flora and fauna
Considering the use of non endemic plants if they better serve a specific ecosystem function
Valuing habitat retention including the provision of new habitats
Educating consumers of the need to value and protect natural systems (e.g. wetlands) and created landscapes

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Efficient and sensitive services layout minimises impact on the ecosystem

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Establishing efficiencies in services layout to minimise the area and level of impact
Minimising changes in landform including cut and fill
Industry support network for native and endemic landscape suppliers and businesses
Avoiding pollution of water bodies including groundwater
Protecting and enhancing natural water systems, vegetation and habitats including movement corridors
Designs that recognise and retain where possible, existing ecosystems and local catchments thereby minimising earthworks
Retention of native vegetation and mature trees and incorporation into services layout

Understanding and valuing ecosystem opportunities and constraints into integrated urban planning outcomes

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Preliminary and detailed site and context analysis (flora, fauna, built environment, heritage etc)
Easing of access into natural areas
Minimising land clearing and benching
Integrated Urban Water Management
Designing for wildlife corridors
Providing appropriate buffers - with multiple outcomes (i.e. not sterilised)
Designs that recognise existing ecosystems and local catchments thereby minimising earthworks
Retention and integration of habitat and biodiversity into design
Rehabilitating / restoring natural areas

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Considered building designs that integrate and respect the natural environment

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