Local Agenda 21

Q: Why did the 1987 World Commission on the Environment & Development say this:
"Development which meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs". Brundtland Commission

A: During the 1980's, growing concern about our environment and its ability to cope under the pressure that we create hit the headlines. This concern was possibly sparked off by the scientific discovery of a large hole in the ozone layer over the Antarctic. People began to question whether we can continue doing some of the things we are doing today, for example pumping so many manmade gases into our atmosphere and chopping down trees for paper. Already our environment is creaking under the strain. This has encouraged us to consider how we will live in the future, in the next century.

Recognising that change was needed prompted a conference was held in 1992 at Rio in Brazil, commonly known as The Earth Summit. Over 150 world leaders gathered together to discuss the treatment of our environment. At this conference a document called "Agenda 21" - an agenda for the 21st Century- was presented. Agenda 21 has a guiding principle of sustainable development which the 150 world leaders pledged their efforts and support to make work. Since then committees worldwide have taken up the challenges of sustainable development and Agenda 21.

Have you heard of Local Agenda 21?

This is based on the challenges put forward at the Earth Summit but is looking at the issues from a local viewpoint. Each local area has different local pressures and needs. For this reason communities need to look at their own needs and to determine what they can change locally for the better. This in turn can feed into the national and global picture of action for our environment.

'Local' in this case also means Local Government, for example South Cambridgeshire District Council. Much of the work that Local Authorities undertake is for the local community, for example waste collections or pollution monitoring. Local Government is seen as having a key role to play in sustainable development. You will find that over 70% of Local Authorities including South Cambridgeshire District Council have taken up the challenges of The Earth Summit and Local Agenda 21.

What is sustainable development?

The Brundtland Commission quote at the beginning of this article is a good description of what sustainable development means. The points below may also help you to understand it.

  • We need to reduce the amount of raw materials (i.e. minerals, trees) that we use and waste.
  • We need to think more carefully about how much energy we use and waste. Fossil fuels are due to run out at some point in the future, so we need to be careful that we use our fuels wisely.
  • Disposing of waste - we make so much waste and we also waste so much re-useable waste! Let's think about what this means for future generations if we carry on producing as much, if not more, waste than we do today?
  • We need to be careful how we destroy plants and wildlife sites. Already the dodo is extinct, the black rhino and the panda are endangered, and many other animals and plants are being slowly inched off this planet. Is this because we don't allow enough of their natural foods to survive or we don't let their traditional habitats remain? It is vital to maintain the variety of animal and plant life on our planet.
  • Importantly, we are concerned with quality of life. This may mean jobs, homes, leisure, family, peace, religion or whatever else makes your life complete and happy. At the same time we need to remember that the quality of our lives is high compared to some other countries. For example, countries in Africa and India where food and water are in short supply and basic human needs are not necessarily available. Is there an issue of sharing our wealth more evenly?


What is South Cambridgeshire District Council doing about sustainable development and Local Agenda 21?

South Cambridgeshire District Council has decided to adopt a strategy that will show the priority that this authority gives to Local Agenda 21. We believe that sustainable development is not only about talking - it is about action in the right places and educating people to help them change some of their habits.

First, we are putting our own house in order. We can not talk to the community about reducing waste and energy if we don't look ourselves at the waste we produce, or the energy we use! At the same time, we are keen to find out what the community thinks we should be doing in terms of sustainable development. Do you have any suggestions as to how we can talk to you or consult with you? Let us know what you think sustainable development means. We all need to move forward and think of the 21st Century and its needs.

Examples of Action Programmes in South Cambridgeshire District Council

Greening Our Villages

A group from 5 villages in South Cambridgeshire has taken on the challenge of sustainability. Concerned about Carbon Dioxide emissions into the atmosphere, climate change, and energy waste, they have conducted a questionnaire survey of their residents to help them become more aware of energy efficiency.

They also work with The Humberstone Networking Trust bringing education and work in horticulture for less able people. Currently, they are also looking into a community composting scheme for residents of the villages. This has yet to be confirmed.

Cottenham Design Statement

Residents pulled together a guide for the village to indicate preferred development or building works for the village. Local Residents taking local action.

Energy Efficiency

An energy policy has been developed for Local Authority Housing. The planned maintenance programme takes energy efficiency into account when it makes changes to properties.

Recycling

Over 80 recycling facilities available for local residents. Recycling is an essential factor in reducing the amount of raw materials consumed. More about recycling.

And there is so much more.... Contact us: 08450 450 500 or email scdc@scambs.gov.uk

Chief Executive
South Cambridgeshire District Council
South Cambridgeshire Hall
Cambourne Business Park
Cambourne
Cambridge
CB23 6EA