The District Council will integrate environmental considerations into all it's activities and seek to:

• Reduce it's own energy and water use whilst promoting responsible waste and energy management throughout the District.
• Minimise and where-ever possible eliminate the release of any pollutant which may cause environmental damage to water, land or air.
• Balance developmental needs with the protection and conservation of the natural and built environment, protecting and enhancing the landscape; historical, architectural and local distinctiveness of the District, whilst preserving and enhancing the bio-diversity of the area.
• Implement Projects to improve the natural environment.
• Promote the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources and renewable and non-renewable resources.
• Work in partnership at a local, sub-regional, regional, national and international level to promote and share good environmental practice.
• Promote understanding of, and participation in environmental issues both within the Council and in the community.

The District Council will work towards achieving these aims by:

• Systematically reviewing all existing and new policies, activities and practices against their environmental impact and where appropriate implementing environmentally friendlier practices and equipment / technologies.
• Ensuring environmental aims and improvements are reflected in the Council's internal planning processes and strategies.
• Setting milestones and targets for environmental improvements / activities within the District and monitoring progress to staff, members and the community.
• Educating, training and raising awareness of environmental and sustainability issues amongst staff, members and the community.
• Complying with legislation and regulations and other requirements to which the District Council subscribes.
• Raising awareness of environmental issues with our service providers and contractors and encouraging them to work towards similar environmental standards.
• Striving for continual improvements in environmental performance and management.
• Reviewing the environmental policy, milestones and targets and making any necessary changes.

Contact Sharon Ward, Environment and Health Co-ordinator on:
Telephone 01623 450000 ext 4467

E-mail: s.ward@ashfield-dc.gov.uk

Copies of this policy are available for staff, the community and any other interested parties.

Signed by:

Cllr K Creed, Leader of the Council

Cllr A.W. Price, Lead Member for Environment

Mr A Mellor, Chief Executive