Cr. Peter Woods, OAM, President of the Local Government Association of NSW presented at the Newcastle Pathways to Sustainability Conference last year. His passion and dedication was evident then. He explains: Local Agenda 21 is the equivalent concept for local communities and provides a means for translating global concerns, such as climate change and loss of biodiversity, to the local level. Too often environmental issues are usurped by employment or social justice concerns. Local Agenda 21 can assist local communities to integrate their environmental, economic and social needs and aspirations. It is important that to achieve such integration, all facets of the community are given equal opportunity to become actively involved in the process. This is why Agenda 21 calls for strengthening the roles of women, children and youth, indigenous people, non-government organisations, trade unions, business and industry. Some 2000 Local Government authorities worldwide have adopted the concept. In Australia, more and more councils are taking up the challenge of Local Agenda 21. They are recognising that undertaking Local Agenda 21 brings benefits to all sectors of the community including new opportunities for business and industry, empowerment of community members often left out of decision-making processes and an improved quality of life for the whole community. Local Agenda 21 is all about sharing responsibility for our future. Sustainability will not just happen - it is a long-term goal to be worked towards. Local Government is wholeheartedly committed to and working with their communities on Local Agenda 21 to achieve a healthy and sustainable environment for present and future generations. Cr. Peter Woods, OAM, President, |