Sustainability

Sustainability is about integrating and balancing the often competing needs of economic, social and environmental issues. It involves thinking about the future, caring for the environment, improving quality of life and encouraging greater community participation.

Working towards sustainability is part of Woking Borough Council's corporate commitment. The Council has developed a series of policies and procedures that aim to move this agenda forward.  These are based around sixteen sustainability themes:

Themes of a Sustainable Woking:

1. Use of energy, water, minerals and materials. 2. Waste generation / sustainable waste management.
3. Pollution to air, land and water. 4. Factors that contribute to Climate Change.
5. Protection of and access to the natural environment. 6. Travel choices that do not rely on the car.
7. A strong, diverse and sustainable local economy. 8. Meet local needs locally.
9. Opportunities for education and information. 10. Provision of appropriate and sustainable housing.
11. Personal safety and reduced fear of crime. 12. Equality in health and good health.
13. Access to cultural and leisure facilities. 14. Social inclusion / engage and consult communities.
17. Equal opportunities for the whole community. 16. Contribute to Woking's pride of place.

Annual Sustainability Report

In order to monitor the Council's contribution to local sustainability, the Annual Sustainability Report has been developed. This has idenified more than seventy sustainability performance indicators which will be reported each year in the Annual Service and Performance Plan.

Sustainability Impact Assessment

A Sustainability Impact Assessment is used to record relevant sustainability impacts associated with the Council's Service Plans, Committee Reports and Projects.

Further Information 

The Council is recognised for forward thinking approaches to local sustainability, and has been awarded Beacon Council status for 'Sustainable Energy',  'Promoting Sustainable Communities through the Planning Process' and 'Tackling Climate Change'.  The Council is also working towards a long-term Climate Change Strategy, and promotes local action through support for Woking Local Agenda 21.

For more information, please contact:

  • Woking Borough Council
    Civic Offices
    Gloucester Square
    Woking
    Surrey
    GU21 6YL

Telephone: 01483 755 855
email: wokbc@woking.gov.uk