Focus on sustainable living in Wanganui - 17/06/2008The Wanganui District Council is to consider signing up to a programme aimed at promoting sustainable living, particularly in the family home.
Environment spokesperson Cr Nicki Higgie says the Sustainable Living Programme, developed and endorsed by local and regional councils throughout New Zealand, is a community-based adult education programme. It provides courses that promote practical ways to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle.
"This programme is a great opportunity for people to learn about household health and broader environmental sustainability," Cr Higgie said.
"The courses range from energy efficiency and eco-building and renovation through to reducing waste, shopping wisely, gardening with nature and being water wise. There's even a course on smart travel."
The Council would pay $1000 per year to subscribe to the programme and Sustainable Whanganui would run the courses. The Community Education Service and Wanganui City College will organise the tutor hours at no cost to the programme.
The Council will decide at its meeting on June 30 whether to subscribe to the Sustainable Living Programme.
In addition, the Council intends to investigate sustainable projects for funding under the government's Sustainable Management Fund, Cr Higgie said.
The fund supports community groups, iwi, businesses and local government in taking practical actions that produce long-term environmental benefits. The objectives of the fund are to make a positive difference to the environment by funding projects that support the Ministry for the Environment's priorities; encourage pro-active partnerships and promote community action.
Applications of between $10,000 and $200,000 can be made each financial year for projects that start on July 1. The funding is available for up to three years.
Groups which have a project that may be suitable for the Sustainable Management Fund should contact Narelle Gray at the Council, phone (06) 349 0001, to discuss making an application. | 
