Environment and Sustainability
What is sustainability?
Sustainability:
- is about respecting ecological limits and natural resource constraints,
- is about the health and wellbeing of people and nature,
- is about ensuring social, economic and environmental factors are all appropriately considered in our decision making and the actions we take,
- acknowledges and responds to change - it promotes resilience, adaptation, diversity and confidence,
- prompts us to consider how our local actions impact the region, state, nation and the world,
- is a shared responsibility between all levels of government, organisations, businesses and the community.
Mount Barker faces many sustainability challenges and threats to our environment, including climate change, biodiversity loss and increasing waste. As a fast-growing district, our challenge is to manage our growth in environmentally sustainable ways.
Environment and Sustainability Strategy
In August 2025 Council adopted the Mount Barker District Environment and Sustainability Strategy 2035.
The Strategy sets the direction for environmental action over the next decade to 2035. Building on achievements of the past, it reflects the evolving needs of our community, the urgency of global environmental issues, and our shared local commitment to becoming the most liveable region in South Australia.
The Mount Barker Council State of the Environment Report provides an overview of the current environmental and sustainability conditions within the region and was developed to inform the Strategy. It evaluates the health of the local environment, identifies key issues and challenges, and presents an evidence-based foundation to inform the development of the updated Environment and Sustainability Strategy.
The Strategy was informed by extensive and constructive community engagement and relevant information and data relating to local environmental conditions. The final version of the document was completed and presented to elected Council Members in August 2025 where it was endorsed. Read the Council meeting agenda and minutes.
There are five themes of the Strategy (listed below). Click on the theme to read the related Action Plan and further information.
