SSG 32 Sustainable Environment Report

Stonnington Survey Group Page 1 of 48
StonningtonSurvey Group
Sustainable Environment
Analysis Report September 2015

For further information about this document please contact:
Name: Deven Russell, Research and Support Officer
Department: Communications and Community Planning
Division: Sustainable Future

Contents
1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 5
Results Summary 6
Sample 7
2. ANALYSIS OVERVIEW 10
State of the environment 10
Individual interest of different environment areas 10
City of Stonnington and sustainable environment 11
Sustainability at home 11
Barriers and encouragement of being environmentally sustainable 12
City of Stonnington documents, initiatives and events 12
3. SUMMARY OF OVERALL RESULTS 14
Q1. Current state of the environment 14
Q2. Informed about environmental issues 14
Q3. Individual Environmental issues 15
Q4. Interest of different Environment areas 16
Q5. Other environmental issues 17
Q6. Council’s level of commitment to sustainability 18
Q7. Council supports the community to live in an environmentally sustainable way 18
Q8. Council operates in an environmentally sustainable way 19
Q9. Commitment to environmental sustainability at home 19
Q10. Sustainable Environmental actions 20
Q11. Environmental action at home 22
Q12. Reasons for undertaking environmental action at home 23
Q13. Barriers of being environmentally sustainable at home 24
Q14. Encouragement of environmentally sustainable behavior 25
Q15. Council environmental sustainability documents 26
Q16. Familiarity with Council environmental sustainability initiatives 27
Q17. How to receive information about Council’s environmental initiatives and events 28
4. VERBATIM COMMENTS 30
5. APPENDIX: SURVEY 39

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1. Executive Summary
Topic: Sustainable Transport safety
Date: Survey – July 2015
Report – September 2015
Audience: Stonnington Survey Group
Number of respondents: 185
Purpose:
This survey aims to identify the issues of interest to residents and gain an insight into current
environmental attitudes and behaviours. The results of this section will inform Council’s
environmental sustainability activities and provide a measure for the effectiveness of our
sustainability initiatives.
Methodology:
The Sustainable Environment Survey Report 2015 was informed by online and hard copy
surveys. Survey data was collated on Excel spreadsheets. Where possible, data was analysed
quantitatively and put into a graph. When analysing the qualitative data from open-ended
questions, attention was given to the variety of responses, as well as giving a ranking of
popularity of responses (through counting responses of a similar theme).
Corporate and Community Planning:
Corporate and Community Planning (CCP) as part of the broader Communications and
Community Planning department providing timely, high quality social policy and planning advice
to assist and support the decision-making, service delivery and community development
processes of Council. CCP uses social research and community engagement through the
Stonnington Survey Group to assist business units to gather data on a variety of service and
social issues. Analysis on a range of social and community research leads to improvements
and effective outcomes in service and amenity in the City of Stonnington.

Results Summary

Sample
An analysis of the Stonnington Survey Group sample in shown on the table below. Of those
respondents who provided their personal details, just over half were females (54%). The age
group with the greatest representation was persons aged 45-54 years (26%). The response
from 75+ years and older was very low (just one respondents). This limits the value of analysis
for respondents of this age range and these results should not be regarded as representative of
this age group. The largest proportions of respondents were from Malvern East (18%), Prahran
(18%), and Malvern (16%) (see table 1).
Table 1: SSG profile
% Number
Gender
Female 54% 113
Male 34% 72
Age Structure
15-24 years 7% 12
25-34 years 18% 34
35-44 years 22% 40
45-54 years 26% 48
55-64 years 20% 37
65-74 years 7% 12
75+ years 1% 1
Suburb
Armadale 13% 23
Toorak 5% 10
South Yarra 8% 15
Prahran 18% 33
Malvern 16% 30
Malvern East 18% 34
Windsor 8% 15
Glen Iris 11% 20
Kooyong 2% 4
Key demographics
2015 Respondents

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Analysis Overview

2.Analysis Overview
The following commentary is an overview of the results and covers each of the questions in the
survey. Further information can be obtained through the range of data images following this
including graphs and tables.
State of the environment
The survey began by gauging how concerned respondents are about the current state of the
environment. The majority of respondents (56% / 97 respondents) were very concerned (see
page 9). Of the 56%, a high proportion (70% / 79) were females.
Question two asked respondents how informed they were about environmental issues, the
majority of respondents (64% / 116 respondents) believe they are fairly informed (see page 11).
Respondents were asked if they agreed or
disagreed with a number of individual
environmental issues statements.
Opinions were positive with 89%, 158 respondents
said there’s something I can do about the
environment as an individual and 82%, 146
respondents find it simple to change my habits to
be more environmentally friendly
Respondents disagreed/strongly disagreed in the
highest proportion with I talk to friends about how
to be more environmentally friendly (19%, 33
respondents) (see page 10).
Individual interest of different environment areas
Question four asked respondents if they are interested in a number of sustainable environment
activities. Respondents overwhelmingly are very interested in water conservation and
management (89%, 161 respondents) followed by waste management (88%, 158 respondents)
and energy conservation (84%, 152 respondents) (see page 12). A high percentage of
respondents (34%, 60 respondents) were ether neutral or not very interested in environmental
education.
In addition to question four, question five respondents were asked if there are any other
environmental issues that interested them. The majority of comments were about water
conservation and management in particular rain and waste water management and increasing
recycling (both 11%, 9 respondents). Those that said they were very concerned about the
environment in question one also strongly agreed that they could have an individual impact on
the environment (63.9% / 62 respondents) or strongly agreed it was worth helping even if others
didn’t (75%.0 / 73 respondents).
96% / 170
respondents
strongly agree/agree that
it’s worth doing things to
help the environment even
if others don’t do the same
followed by there’s
something I can do about
the environment as an
individual

City of Stonnington and sustainable environment
Respondents were asked to rate Council’s level of commitment to sustainability. A small
majority of respondents (40%, 71 respondents) rated Council as high followed by neither high
nor low (32%, 58 respondents) and don’t know (14%, 25 respondents).
Respondents were then asked how important is to them that Council supports the community to
live in an environmentally sustainable way. A large percentage of respondents (92%, 168
respondents) said it was ether very important or important (see page 15).
Question eight asked how important it is to respondents that Council operates in an
environmentally sustainable way. That majority of respondents (94%, 171 respondents) said it
was either very important or important (see page 16).
Sustainability at home
Respondents were asked in question nine to rate their level of commitment to environmental
sustainability at home. The majority of respondents rated there level of commitment as either
very high or high (77%, 137 respondents).
Question ten asked respondents what
sustainable environmental actions at
home.
A small majority of respondents recycle
clothing (55%, 97 respondents) and
add/remove clothing when hot/cold
instead of turning on heater or air con
(49%, 87 respondents). A high
percentage of respondents never
purchase carbon offsets (74%, 128
respondents) followed by carpool/car
share (61%, 107 respondents) and
participation in community environmental
activities (61%, 107 respondents) (see
page 18).
Following on from question ten, question eleven asked respondents if they have made any
sustainable environmental actions to their home. Nine out of ten of respondents have installed
dual flush toilet (90%, 162 respondents) followed by purchased energy efficient appliances
(79%, 139 respondents) and installed energy efficient lighting (77%/ 137 respondents). A
number of respondents have considered solar panels (30%/52 respondents) and solar hot water
(27%, 47 respondents) (see page 20).
Respondents were then asked to comment why they undertake environmental actions at home.
The majority of respondents say they take action because they are concerned about the
environment (26%, 39 respondents) followed by cost efficient (23%, 34 respondents) and
reduce impact on the environment (12%, 18 respondents) (see page 21).
8 out of 10
approximately (73% / 138)
respondents
always turn off lights
when they leave the room

Barriers and encouragement of being environmentally sustainable
Respondents were asked what the barriers were preventing them being more environmentally
sustainable at home. Approximately seven out of ten respondents said associated costs (68%,
123 respondents) is a barrier followed by effort required (27%, 50 respondents) and lack of
information on what to do (18%, 32 respondents) (see page 23).
Question fourteen asked what would encourage them to be more environmentally sustainable at
home. This question reflected question thirteen were the majority of respondents (67%, 122
respondents) said reducing costs would encourage them followed by awareness of quick and
easy activities (46%, 83 respondents) and incentives (44%, 81 respondents) (see page 24).
City of Stonnington documents, initiatives and events
Respondents were asked if they were familiarity with three Council environmental sustainability
documents. The majority of respondents for all documents were not aware of them ranging
from 61% for the environment strategy to 73% for the SDAPP program (see page 25).
Question sixteen asked respondents if they are aware of a list of Council environmental
sustainability. Respondents overwhelmingly are aware of and participated in hard waste
collection (97%, 172 respondents), green waste collection (73%, 128 respondents) and E-waste
recycling (42%, 72 respondents) (see page 26).

Summary of Overall Results

3.Summary of Overall results
Q1. Current state of the environment
How concerned are you personally about the current state of the environment (the air,
water, and land in or on which people, animals, and plants live)?
Number of respondents: 180 of 189 total survey respondents.
Q2. Informed about environmental issues
To what extent do you feel informed about environmental issues?
53.9%37.8%
8.3%
Very concerned Fairly concerned Not concerned Unsure
Source: Corporate and Community Planning/Stonnington Survey Group 2015
Figure 1: Question 1.
Number of respondents: 180 of 189
28.3%
64.4%
7.2%
Very well informed Fairly informed Not well informed Unsure

Q3. Individual Environmental issues
Please rate the following statements based on whether you agree or disagree.
45.8%
53.9%
30.9%
14.3%
43.5%
41.6%
51.1%
33.7%
4.0%
3.9%
14.0%
33.1%
4.5%
0.6%
3.9%
15.4%
2.3%
3.4%
0.0% 20.0% 40.0% 60.0% 80.0% 100.0%
There’s something I can do about the environment as an
individual
It’s worth doingthings to help the environment even if
others don’t do the same
I find it simple to change my habits to be more
environmentally friendly
I talk to friends about how to be more environmentally
friendly
Strongly agree Agree Neither agree nor disagree Disagree Strongly disagree

Q4. Interest of different Environment areas
Please rate your level of interest in each of the following areas.
Very
interested
Interested Neutral
Not very
interested
Not
interested
at all
42 90 32 10 4
23.6% 50.6% 18.0% 5.6% 2.2%
69 83 21 4 3
38.3% 46.1% 11.7% 2.2% 1.7%
74 87 13 6 0
41.1% 48.3% 7.2% 3.3% 0.0%
83 75 15 4 1
46.6% 42.1% 8.4% 2.2% 0.6%
67 73 27 10 3
37.2% 40.6% 15.0% 5.6% 1.7%
50 63 38 19 7
28.2% 35.6% 21.5% 10.7% 4.0%
73 66 27 10 3
40.8% 36.9% 15.1% 5.6% 1.7%
44 69 43 17 3
25.0% 39.2% 24.4% 9.7% 1.7%
75 68 24 10 2
41.9% 38.0% 13.4% 5.6% 1.1%
Environmental commitment and reporting -
Monitoring and reporting of Council’s
environmental performance and Council
commitment to sustainability.
Energy conservation - Reducing energy use and
associated greenhouse gas emissions, improving
efficiency measures and use of renewable energy
sources.
Sustainable transport - Walking, cycling, car sharing,
public transport, hybrid vehicles.
Urban Agriculture - Cultivating, processing, and
distributing food in or around the city Animal
husbandry, aquaculture, agroforestry, beekeeping
and horticulture.
Biodiversity - Protecting and enhancing native
vegetation and habitat Enhancing existing open
space and wildlife corridors.
Environmental education - Environmental events,
workshops, school sustainability, availability of
online resources.
Water conservation and management - Reducing
water usage, using alternate sources such as
rainwater, stormwater and recycled water,
improving the quality of water entering creeks and
waterways.
Waste management - Reducing the amount of
waste generated, increasing diversion from landfill
for recycling, improved provision of waste services.
Sustainable Purchasing - Purchasing products with
lower environmental impact, buying local.
Source: Corporate and Community Planning/StonningtonSurvey Group 2015
Table 1: Question 4

Q5. Other environmental issues
Are there any other environmental issues of particular interest to you?
Theme 1
Water conservation and management
11%/9 respondents said:
Theme 3
Plant more trees
“Harvest rain water and storm
water”
“Storm water capture for local use
and to reduce flooding following
downpour.”
“Water conservation”
Theme 2
Increase Recycling
“Council needs to have more
recycling bins in public areas”
“More public recycling bins”
“Many people still don't recycle in
the most basic way”
“Council should plant more trees,
native grass & native flowers”
“Planting of trees”
“Protecting mature trees which
provide habitat for wild life”
Theme 4
Pollution reduction
“Reduction in pollution”
“I am concerned about the number
of wood fire places being installed
causing considerable air pollution in
the area”
“Reduction in pollution, reduction in
carbon emissions”

Q6. Council’s level of commitment to sustainability
How do you rate Council’s level of commitment to sustainability?
Q7. Council supports the community to live in an environmentally sustainable
way
How important is it to you that Council supports the community to live in an
environmentally sustainable way?
8.4%
39.7%
32.4%
2.8%
2.8%
14.0%
Very high High Neither high nor low Low Very Low Don’t know
61.5%
30.8%
4.9%
0.5%0.5%
Very important Important
Neither important nor unimportant Not very important
Not important at all
Figure 5: Question 7

Q8. Council operates in an environmentally sustainable way
How important is it to you that Council operates in an environmentally sustainable way?
Q9. Commitment to environmental sustainability at home
How would you rate your level of commitment to environmental sustainability at home?
54.4%
39.6%
4.4%
0.5%0.5%
Very important Important
Neither important nor unimportant Not very important
Not important at all
24.3%
53.1%
22.0%
0.6%
Very high High Neither high nor low Low Very low

Q10. Sustainable Environmental actions
Please indicate which of the following actions you currently undertake at home.
Always Sometimes Never
Turn off lights when you leave the room 138 37 0
78.86% 21.14% 0.00%
Switch off appliances at the wall 51 104 20
29.14% 59.43% 11.43%
Wash your clothes in cold water 81 69 26
46.02% 39.20% 14.77%
Catch public transport 46 116 15
25.99% 65.54% 8.47%
Recycle clothing 97 69 9
55.43% 39.43% 5.14%
Take shorter showers 86 69 22
48.59% 38.98% 12.43%
Take your own bags to the supermarket 90 68 18
51.14% 38.64% 10.23%
Ride a bike or walk instead of driving 41 97 38
23.30% 55.11% 21.59%
Buy products and services endorsed as
having a 'low impact on the environment'
36 122 17
20.57% 69.71% 9.71%
Buy products with less or no packaging 40 124 12
22.73% 70.45% 6.82%
Add/remove clothing when hot/cold
instead of turning on heater or air
conditioner
87 86 5
48.88% 48.31% 2.81%
Shop locally or purchase locally grown
food
69 103 4
39.20% 58.52% 2.27%
Use chemical free cleaning products 35 113 24
20.35% 65.70% 13.95%
Receive bills, magazines, etc digitally or
online rather than purchasing/receiving
paper copies
40 99 40
22.35% 55.31% 22.35%
Buy organic or fair trade food 20 111 43
11.49% 63.79% 24.71%

Take active steps to prevent storm water
pollution (e.g. use a commercial car wash,
avoid synthetic chemicals in the garden)
88 74 15
49.72% 41.81% 8.47%
Donate money to environmental
organisations
34 73 71
19.10% 41.01% 39.89%
Car pool/ car share 9 58 107
5.17% 33.33% 61.49%
Grow your own food at home 19 62 96
10.73% 35.03% 54.24%
Participate in community environmental
activities
5 64 107
2.84% 36.36% 60.80%
Use a worm farm or compost bin 45 27 105
25.42% 15.25% 59.32%
Purchase carbon offsets 8 37 128
4.62% 21.39% 73.99%
Purchase and use Green Power 38 36 104
21.35% 20.22% 58.43%
Table 2: Question 10

Q11. Environmental action at home
In addition to the actions outlined above, have you made any of the following changes
to your home?
Yes No Considered
Installed and use solar panels 27 97 52
15.34% 55.11% 29.55%
Installed solar hot water 18 107 47
10.47% 62.21% 27.33%
Installed and use rain water tanks 52 92 31
29.71% 52.57% 17.71%
Installed and use a grey water system 10 132 31
5.78% 76.30% 17.92%
Installed a green roof or wall or rain
garden
5 145 19
2.96% 85.80% 11.24%
Installed dual flush toilet 162 16 1
90.50% 8.94% 0.56%
Installed low flow taps 95 68 10
54.91% 39.31% 5.78%
Using a pool cover 9 137 7
16.98% 258.49% 13.21%
Maintain a low water use garden 115 47 12
66.09% 27.01% 6.90%
Installed energy efficient lighting 137 28 12
77.40% 15.82% 6.78%
Draught proofed the home 108 53 15
61.36% 29.94% 8.47%
Installed better insulation 99 56 15
58.24% 32.94% 8.82%
Installed double glazing 31 110 29
18.24% 64.71% 17.06%
Purchased energy efficient appliances 139 24 12
79.43% 13.71% 6.86%
Purchased water efficient appliances 125 37 14
71.02% 20.90% 7.91%
Table 3: Question 11

Q12. Reasons for undertaking environmental action at home
What are your reasons for undertaking environmental action at home?
Theme 1
Concern for the environment
Theme 3
Save the environment/reduce impact on
the environment
“Because I am concerned about the
overall environment”
“Consideration for the environment”
Theme 2
Saves money/cost efficient
“For lessening my impact on the
environment and it makes me feel
good”
“If it saves money, I do it”
“Save money on energy and water
costs”
“Lower cost less impact”
“To save the environment”
“To save the environment, do the
right thing and save money in the
long run”
“Because I believe in trying to
reduce my environmental impact”
Theme 4
Concern about the future of the planet
“Future of our environment”
“Important for the future”
“It's our kid’s future”

Q13. Barriers of being environmentally sustainable at home
What are some of the barriers preventing you from behaving in an environmentally
sustainable way at home?
27.5%
67.6%
13.2%
17.6%
7.7%
10.4%
7.7%
14.8%
0.5%
23.6%
0.0% 20.0% 40.0% 60.0% 80.0%
Effort required
Associated costs
Lack of support/encouragement from…
Lack of information on what to do
Lack of understanding about issue
Too busy
Not undertaken by others
No barriers
Don’t care
Other

Q14. Encouragement of environmentally sustainable behavior
What would enable or encourage you to improve your environmentally sustainable
behavior at home?
45.6%
26.9%
20.9%
13.2%
44.5%
33.0%
19.2%
67.0%
12.6%
0.0% 20.0% 40.0% 60.0% 80.0%
Awareness of quick and easy activities
Political leadership
Sustainably conscious neighbours
Encouragement from family and/or friends
Incentives
Education around what you can do
Information about environmental issues
Reduced costs
Other

Q15. Council environmental sustainability documents
Please rate your familiarity with the following Council environmental sustainability
documents
6.78%
11.43%
4.02%
32.20%
24.00%
22.41%
61.02%
64.57%
73.56%
0.00% 20.00% 40.00% 60.00% 80.00% 100.00%
Sustainable
Environment
Strategy 2013-17
Annual Sustainability
Snapshot
Sustainable Design
Assessment in the
Planning Process
(SDAPP) program
Aware of and read Aware but not read Not aware

Q16. Familiarity with Council environmental sustainability initiatives
Please rate your familiarity with the following Council environmental sustainability
initiatives.
96.6%
72.7%
41.6%
38.5%
5.1%
8.0%
22.3%
12.6%
1.8%
4.0%
27.8%
24.0%
2.2%
23.3%
37.0%
31.3%
22.0%
19.9%
34.3%
37.7%
15.8%
11.4%
31.8%
29.1%
1.1%
4.0%
21.4%
30.2%
72.9%
72.2%
43.4%
49.7%
82.5%
84.6%
40.3%
46.9%
0.0% 20.0% 40.0% 60.0% 80.0% 100.0%
Hard Wastecollection
Green Wastecollection
E-waste recycling at Stonnington transfer station
Recycling Drop Off points
Garage Sale Trail
Compost Revolution
Calendar of Environmental Events
Homeenergy assessments
PositiveChargeenergy efficiency advicehotline
Stonnington Green Schools Network
Spring into Gardening
Council’s ‘No junk mail’ stickers
Awareof and participated Awarebut not participated Not aware

Q17. How to receive information about Council’s environmental initiatives and
events
How do you like to receive information about Council’s environmental initiatives and
events?
59.9%
30.8%
37.9%
6.0%
1.6%
1.6%
3.3%
25.3%
4.9%
8.8%
0.0% 20.0% 40.0% 60.0% 80.0%
InStonnington
Council website
Environment e-newsletter
Facebook (Council)
Facebook (Libraries)
Twitter
ServiceCentres
Libraries
I don’t want to receive information about environmental…
Other

Verbatim Comments

4. Verbatim Comments
12. What are your reasons for undertaking environmental action at home?
A better way of living.
Already installed
Apartment complex - no possible scope for such actions.
assist the environment
Awareness of need
Because I am concerned about the overall environment and the measures I use are no brainers
Because I believe in trying to reduce my environmental impact: solar panels, recycling, buying local
Because it is important we all play our part
Because it makes sense to; I wish to be a responsible member of the community
Because of the drought I became really concerned. This problem will is still with us. The garden as it
was, was unsustainable. Took guidance from Botanical Gardens on drought tolerant plants etc.
Installed special blinds to keep heat in in winter, and keep sun out in summer. Ceiling fans are all
that is needed in bedrooms in summer. Only on days of sustained heat.
Because of the effect on global warming
Being responsible citizen
better for live and the future ahead
Better for the natural environment and often more cost efficient as well.
cleaner environment, cheaper bills
Climate warming
common sense
Common sense
Concern about the future of the planet
Concern for the environment
Concern for the environment.
conservation, save costs
Consideration for the environment.
Consideration of the environment
cost
Cost
Cost factor
cost saving and benefit the environment
Cost savings
Cost savings
Costs can be prohibitive.
dislike waste and inefficiency
Do what I can to use utilities as efficiently as I can for both environmental and cost reasons
Doing what we can with no inconvenience

Easy to act local
Economy
Effort to contribute but only to extent cost effective
Environmental efficiency should be the norm. Bought a house this year and it was shockingly
inefficient so we had an energy assessment and are working through a list of improvements
environmental help
every bit helps
Every bit helps.
Every household can make a difference
Every little bit helps make the planet cleaner, safer
Every little bit helps. Often the initial outlay is expensive but it pays for itself in the end.
Everyone can help the environment by taking action at home, good example to the children.
Everyone has a part today in mitigating the damage humans cause to the earth.
Feel better, save money, improve environment, eat better food
feel that I am doing the right thing
For lessening my impact on the environment and it makes me feel good, I like to watch things
grow, and use my worm farm.
For my grandchildren's world
For our own and others' good
Future of our environment Every little bit helps
Help the environment
I am a good moral citizen
I can't car pool or use public transport much. I have a disability (no allowance for that above?) Live
in Body Corp. Aren't allowed solar panels. Can't do double glazing for same reason. So Body Corps
are an issue. I don't shower every day. I have a 'wash'. Water gets used more than once. This is a
dry and delicate country. We have too many people using too few resources. We don't plant
enough to replace what is removed. Natural habitat doesn't always work - so that isn't always
sustainable. I also leave fruit leftovers and peelings and old flowers for the ringtail possums. It's not
their fault there are too many humans and too little flora. I wish I could do more but I find
regulations stifling at every turn - or cost. And hybrid cars cause pollution at their inception, also
the batteries are highly toxic. As are the mercury lights we 'MUST' have now. Highly toxic. A
teaspoon of that will destroy a 100 mile lake. So where does that all go? Seems to me, all short
term thinking.
I care about the environment
I do the right thing even if others don't
I do what I can but I live in a body corporate controlled apartment unit. There are laws restricting
what can be done. e.g. can't put solar panels on my roof! :(
I do what I can. I have a Victorian weatherboard house and it doesn't lend itself easily to
environmentally efficient systems, but I have increased insulation in the roof.
I do what I can. I live in a small rented one bedroom flat so the flat is not weather proof, heated or
anything fancy like solar panels or recycled water.
I feel I'm making some kind of contribution/commitment to preserving the environment

I feel we need to do our bit to be environmentally friendly
I live in a rental property which makes initiating changes difficult. Some kind of incentive for
landlords to invest in better energy savings would be superb
I live in an apartment building and do what I can as I think it is important for our community
I thinks it's important to all do our best to help the environment. Sometimes money is not available
all you would want to do
I want this plant to survive
I want tor educe my environmental 'footprint' and also to reduce costs of e.g. water, power. But the
upfront costs of some measures can be prohibitive for a person living alone.
if everyone did a little, it would make a big difference
If it saves $$, I do it
Important for the future
Improve the world
In an apartment building, most of the above do not apply
It is the right thing to do.
It often does no harm to be environmentally friendly
It starts with the individual
It's better for the environment, and can also save money
It's difficult living in an apartment to make major changes. However, I've done what I can in my
apartment to make it as environmentally friendly as possible...because I care for the environment.
Its good to do that you can for the environment when/ where you can afford to
It's our kids future
It's the right thing to do
Just being conscious of doing small things to help with the environmental bigger issue
Leading by example to my children, cost effective and normal in Europe ...what we experienced.
Leave the earth better for future generations
Live in flat, don't
Lower cost less impact
Making a difference
Making a small a footprint as possible
Mostly 'no' answers
My passion for the environment.
no need to be wasteful; most of these changes are made for little cost or effort - just a bit of
thought and planning
Not only does this reduce my costs, but I consider it is important to reduce the impact on the
environment by using natural resources for power where possible and preservng the water supply
as it is a finite resource.

Note to Number 18: I don't use a pool cover because I don't have a pool! I haven't installed better
insulation because the insulation I have has a high R factor and is absolutely fabulous both summer
and winter. For Number 19: To keep my footprint on this planet as small as possible.
Offers were offered free by Government, had to replace toilets, appliances so bought more energy/
water efficient ones
our environment is finite -
Personal responsibility and general concern for our environment
Provided it is analysed properly, can be good for society and save money
reduce costs and lower energy consumption
Reduce energy use and cost. Be environmentally friendly within scope of personal impact.
Reduce impact in the environment and reduce costs
reduce impact on environment and save money if possible
Reduce my environmental footprint and reduce costs
Reduce our impact and reduce costs
Reduce water and energy consumption.
Reduced cost
right thing to do for our future
right thing to do when it does not impact hip pocket
satisfying, easy
Save energy, save $$. But I rent, so there's a limit to what I can do
Save environment & in some cases also save expense
Save money on energy and water costs
save money.
Save the environment
Saves power generation, is less wasteful and saves money
Sensible
socially responsible
support issues effecting the damage to our world
The more individuals that take part the greater effect on the environment
The reasons why I don't is that I live in a block of flats
The right thing to do in Australia
To avoid waste / conserve resources.
To avoid wasting resources
To consider effects on environment
to do my bit
to do my bit for the environment
To help the environment and hopefully to save money over time.
To make what improvements we can to live in a sustainable way
To minimize my impact on the environment

To much impact on the environment in one lifetime. My grandmother lived in a completely
harmonious way - no car, little waste, recycling .... we have made such a huge impact (negative) in
such little time.
To preserve our planet
To prevent waste and decrease greenhouse emissions
To reduce dependance on coal fired energy. To reduce pollution of the air or land. Hot water is
heated as used so Solar no better. Considered grey water system to re-cycle water but way our
house is built would have made it more expensive than usual and not very effective.
to save energy ie gas/electricity/water
To save environment and costs
to save money
To save money & the environment
To save money in the long term and not 'waste energy'.
To save money on energy + better for the 'world'. I don't agree with NOT taking easy measures
when they are there to do. I object to excessive packaging and throw-away attitudes. I like to repair
items when I even even if it would have been easier (and perhaps less expensive) to replace.
to save the environment, do the right thing and save money in the long run
To set a good example for our children To help protect the Earth's future
To stop waste and stop spoiling of resources
To try and lower the utility bills.
To try to help environment
Try to do a little for the environment
try to tread lightly
Trying to reduce impact on environment where possible
Trying to reduce my carbon footprint
Utility expenses!!!
Very concerned about the impact man has on the environmebt
Where else?

Q5. Are there any other environmental issues of particular interest to you?
Access to sunlight - solar Congestion/urban density
Air quality, being close to a major road. Noise
All important
Along railway tracks, native grasses & native flowers could be planted. Council should plant
more trees, but look after them.
Anything pertinent to the care of animals.
Average everyday recycling. Many people still don't recycle in the most basic way, such as
separating papers and tins out of landfill, and I wonder why. Is it being lazy or uninformed?
Being able to travel to the city and CARLTON by TRAM is MOST important to me. I am retired
and 78 years old and like to go to the theatre in the city and Nova cinema in Carlton.Because
there is no available parking TRAMS are crucial and environmentally friendly. PUBLIC
TRANSPORT WILL BE CRUCIAL IN THE FUTURE.
Bird life
Changing of all street lighting to LED.
Charming heritage homes are being demolished in order to build cheap dense housing/4 storey
high blocks of flats over-utilizing the sites. Too many people and cars with stress on the physical
environment. This is a major concern!
Climate, farming practices and food production. GMO and organic food
Community gardens
Council divesting from fossil fuel industries, Council being an active participant in the Yarra River
Action Plan, net zero emissions target for Council buildings, 100% renewable targets for Council
buidlings
Council needs to have more recycling bins in public areas.
curb on graffiti idiots
Cycling to the extent it helps the environment, but I cycle for other reasons too.
Declare war on possums!
Electric 'Smart' meters should not be compulsory, because they really do cause illness in some
people (applies or may apply to water and gas also)
Electric vehicles. In stonnington I hate breathing vehicle exhaust fumes. Whether I'm walking,
taking public transport, cycling or even in my own car. Every day I breathe carcinogenic fumes
from Mercedes and BMWS.
Energy and water conservation waste management
Excessive packing of eg fruit and vegetables - eg small amounts trapped in plastic rather than
sold loose.
Exhaust fumes and increasing traffic density
Global Warming
Graffiti, rubbish, sign pollution, clutter and clubs

greenhouse gases
Health of the Yarra river
Housing for the homeless
I am concerned about the number of wood fire places being installedcausing considerable air
pollution in the area
I am keen for more people to go Solar
I am more concerned with not being beaten up at the railway station than protecting the
environment
I approve of council's aim at increasing park areas.
I do not believe in global warming/climate change
I do think continual reinforcing of these matters needed. Residents are getting careless again
about their dogs. Notice in the past week I have had large deposits from dogs in my drive
I favour the concept of an urban forest for Melbourne. It's important that Stonnington be part of
this concept. Re urban agriculture, we need more native planting to support native birds/ small
mammals/ insects/lizards etc.and their habitats. I feel very concerned about the impact of
modern lifestyles on the environment and try to do my best to limit my 'footprint'. I support the
Council's approach to small infill parks eg our new one in Ross St-thank you for it!
I get communications from Aust Conservation
I look forward to better batteries which will allow solar panels to take a Much greater share of
the energy we require.
I think they are all covered above
I think we should follow San Fransisco's lead and ban the sale plastic water bottles in
Stonnington. This product produces a HUGE amount of waste, environmental damageand is
easily stopped. We need to start setting examples not saying it is too hard to change the status
quo. Proactive rather than reactive.
I wish people would use the bins the way they should. Recycling in Stonnington is poor, due
mainly to the residents, renters, and visitors
I would like Stonnington Council to make a very strong statement in regard to global warming
and the phasing in to renewable energy and water conservation for all new construction,
whether private of commercial, and retrofitting Council properties. Little point in creating more
open spaces if there is no water to sustain them.
I'm concerned about the impact of climate change
Impact of overdevelopment. Population pressures on a local environment and microclimate
change.
Increasing open spaces in Stonnington, making Stonnington 'greener' as Boroondara has
achieved. I feel Boroondara's environment makes it more pleasant and family orientated.
Introduced birds displacing native birds
Keen on bike paths and bike infrastructure
Keen on most.

Maintenance of trees in parks
more hard rubbish clean-ups. low energy street lighting. public recycling bins. rubbish dumping
none in particular
No-playing a small part in a bigger community
Not that haven't been covered already.
Not that I can think of
Op shops for recycling. I think if I put an article on the nature strip for council collection, I would
prefer someone to take it, use it than for it to be broken as thrown in a truck
over development of our lovely suburbs... such a short term solution to a huge long term impact
on our quality of life and health in the future.
Overall Stonnington councils excels in this area, perhaps they even 'overdo' it .. but it is local
Councils responsibility and duty to educate the ignorant masses such as myself!!
Planting of trees. Open spaces. Using, say, verges, nature strips for plantings. People being given
seeds, incentives, - ie like the old 'prettiest town in Victoria' awards. Not discussions but actual
doing stuff. When I first came to live in Melbourne years I wasn't allowed to have a water tank. I
thought city folks are wasteful!
Pollution and waste
Population reduction
Preserving environment for bird life in city
protecting mature trees which provide habitat for wild life
Re Waste Management: Recycling bins in all public places and parks. And collecting food waste
for composting or worm farming to keep it out of landfill wherever possible.
recycling of green matter
Recycling, buying local/fresh foods
Reduce cycling on busy roads, use bike and walk paths
Reduce of smoking in public areas , restrictions of use of barbecues in residential small blocks
Reduction in pollution, increased recycling, reduction in carbon emmissions
Remove/relocate temporary leaf storagedepot in Edgar St Glen Iris. It's operation is noisy and
the facility is inappropriate in a suburban street. The space should revert to car parking for
Harold Holt pool users. Would result in less pool users parking in the street.
Renewable energy
Safe cycling routes. Harvest rain water and storm water. Stop land fill of electronic goods.
Soil Toxicity Population Density
solar energy
storm water capture for local use and to reduce flooding following downpour.
support natural also Australian owned and made
Supporting environmental lobbying organisations and Conservation Foundation, National Banks
Victoria by attending meetings and donating money

Sustainable development. Current building projects in south yarra a blot on the suburb. No
sustainable design features or benefits. Traffic impossible, public transport over crowded and
dangerous.
The reduced free space/green areas due to houses now taking up entire blocks, with no regard
to the gardens and trees being wiped out
The state of our parks
Traffic management
Waste of food
Whilst I am not interested, I think they are important eg all topics above need to be worked on
in Stonnington
Why are maroon bins so expensive? Don't you sell the contents?
why Council continues to allow so many high-rise buildings that contribute to the environmental
impact of the area I live, and the increase of waste, traffic, pollution and crime in the small area
of Stonnington, Prahran, that I live and have lived for 15 years.
Yes, let the nature bees exist in the street trees. They do no harm and help to pollinate our
gardens and trees. Stop killing all the bees. It's stupid
Yes. We need to get rid of those trams. They are a disgraceful environmental slur on our city.
Apart from tons of copper filings, dangerous dust from the break shoes and consumption of
brown coal electricity they create visual pollution from all those caged cables above the roads.
They are a danger to everything that needs a flat road for moving around, including bikes,
motorbikes and pedestrians. They are the cause of most traffic snarling and delays in traffic
flows and movement, they are now trains travelling along roads built for small and light vehicles.
They are difficult to access and egress. This is by far the worst blight on the city and it is difficult
to be environmentally responsible when the city encourages such environmental pollution in all
aspects.
you should stick to what the rates pay for not areas outside your works, ie opera in the park etc

5. APPENDIX: Survey
Section 1 - Sustainable Environment
Council has an important role to play in protecting and managing the local environment
to enhance liveability and community health and wellbeing. This section aims to identify
the issues of interest to residents and gain an insight into current environmental
attitudes and behaviours.
The results of this section will inform Council’s environmental sustainability activities
and provide a measure for the effectiveness of our sustainability initiatives.
Environmental Sustainability in General
Q1. How concerned are you personally about the current state of the environment (the
air, water, and land in or on which people, animals, and plants live)?
Very concerned 
Fairly concerned
Not concerned
Unsure
Q2. To what extent do you feel informed about environmental issues?
Very well informed
Fairly informed
Not well informed
Unsure
Q3. Please rate the following statements based on whether you agree or disagree.
Strongly
agree
Agree
Neither
agree nor
disagree
Disagree
Strongly
disagree
There’s something I can do about
the environment as an individual     
It’s worth doing things to help the
environment even if others don’t do
the same
    
I find it simple to change my habits
to be more environmentally friendly     
I talk to friends about how to be
more environmentally friendly     

Q4. Please rate your level of interest in each of the following areas.
Very
interested
Interested Neutral
Not very
interested
Not
interested
at all
Environmental commitment and
reporting
Monitoring and reporting of Council’s
environmental performance and
Council commitment to sustainability.
    
Energy conservation
Reducing energy use and associated
greenhouse gas emissions, improving
efficiency measures and use of
renewable energy sources.
    
Water conservation and
management
Reducing water usage, using
alternate sources such as rainwater,
stormwater and recycled water,
improving the quality of water entering
creeks and waterways.
    
Waste management
Reducing the amount of waste
generated, increasing diversion from
landfill for recycling, improved
provision of waste services.
    
Sustainable Purchasing
Purchasing products with lower
environmental impact, buying local.
    
Urban Agriculture
Cultivating, processing, and
distributing food in or around the city
Animal husbandry, aquaculture,
agroforestry, beekeeping and
horticulture.
    
Biodiversity
Protecting and enhancing native
vegetation and habitat
Enhancing existing open space and
wildlife corridors.
    
Environmental education
Environmental events, workshops,
school sustainability, availability of
online resources.
    
Sustainable transport
Walking, cycling, car sharing, public
transport, hybrid vehicles.
    

Q5. Are there any other environmental issues of particular interest to you?
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
Council’s role
Q6. How do you rate Council’s level of commitment to sustainability?
Very high
High
Neither high nor low
Low
Very Low
Don’t know
Q7. How important is it to you that Council operates in an environmentally sustainable
way?
Very important
Important
Neither important nor unimportant
Not very important
Not important at all
Q8. How important is it to you that Council supports the community to live in an
environmentally sustainable way?
Very important
Important
Neither important nor unimportant
Not very important
Not important at all
Sustainability at Home

Q9. How would you rate your level of commitment to environmental sustainability at
home?
Very high
High
Neither high nor low
Low
Very low
Q10. Please indicate which of the following actions you currently undertake at home.
Always Sometimes Never
Turn off lights when you leave the room   
Switch off appliances at the wall   
Wash your clothes in cold water   
Catch public transport   
Recycle clothing   
Take shorter showers   
Take your own bags to the supermarket   
Ride a bike or walk instead of driving   
Buy products and services endorsed as having a
'low impact on the environment'   
Buy products with less or no packaging   
Add/remove clothing when hot/cold instead of
turning on heater or air conditioner   
Shop locally or purchase locally grown food   
Use chemical free cleaning products   
Receive bills, magazines, etc digitally or online
rather than purchasing/receiving paper copies   
Buy organic or fair trade food   
Take active steps to prevent stormwater
pollution (e.g. use a commercial car wash, avoid
synthetic chemicals in the garden)
  
Donate money to environmental organisations   
Car pool/ car share   
Grow your own food at home   
Participate in community environmental activities   
Use a worm farm or compost bin   
Purchase carbon offsets   
Purchase and use Green Power   

Q11. In addition to the actions outlined above, have you made any of the following
changes to your home?
Yes No Considered
Installed and use solar panels   
Installed solar hot water   
Installed and use rain water tanks   
Installed and use a grey water system   
Installed a green roof or wall or rain garden   
Installed dual flush toilet   
Installed low flow taps   
Using a pool cover   
Maintain a low water use garden   
Installed energy efficient lighting   
Draught proofed the home   
Installed better insulation   
Installed double glazing   
Purchased energy efficient appliances   
Purchased water efficient appliances   
Q12. What are your reasons for undertaking environmental action at home?
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
Q13. What are some of the barriers preventing you from behaving in an environmentally
sustainable way at home? (Please select as many as apply)
 Effort required
 Associated costs
 Lack of support/encouragement from others
 Lack of information on what to do
 Lack of understanding about issue
 Too busy
 Not undertaken by others
 No barriers
 Don’t care
 Other (Please specify) ____________________________

Q14. What would enable or encourage you to improve your environmentally sustainable
behaviour at home? (Please select as many as apply)
Awareness of quick and easy activities
Political leadership
Sustainably conscious neighbours
Encouragement from family and/or friends
Incentives
Education around what you can do
Information about environmental issues
Reduced costs
Other (Please specify) ____________________________
Q15. Please rate your familiarity with the following Council environmental sustainability
documents:
Aware of
and read
Aware
but not
read
Not
aware
Sustainable Environment Strategy 2013-17
  
Annual Sustainability Snapshot
  
Sustainable Design Assessment in the
Planning Process (SDAPP) program
  

Q16. Please rate your familiarity with the following Council environmental sustainability
initiatives:
Aware of
and
participated
Aware but
not
participated
Not
aware
Hard Waste collection   
Green Waste collection   
E-waste recycling at Stonnington transfer
station
  
Recycling Drop Off points for:
 Small Household Batteries
 Mobile Phones and Chargers
 DVDs, CDs and Cases
 VHSs and Cases
 Cassette Tapes and Cases
 Floppy Disks
  
Garage Sale Trail   
Compost Revolution   
Calendar of Environmental Events   
Home energy assessments   
Positive Charge energy efficiency advice
hotline
  
Stonnington Green Schools Network   
Spring into Gardening   
Council’s ‘No junk mail’ stickers   
Q17. How do you like to receive information about Council’s environmental initiatives
and events? (Please select as many as apply)
InStonnington
Council website
Environment e-newsletter
Facebook (Council)
Facebook (Libraries)
Twitter
Service Centres
Libraries
I don’t want to receive information about environmental initiatives and events
Other (Please specify) ____________________________

Q18. How would you prefer to receive the following Council publications?
Post Online Email Service
Centres
and
libraries
Annual recycling calendar
   
Annual garden waste calendar
   
Hard waste brochure (Spring and
Autumn)    
Library notices
   
InStonnington
   
Ward newsletters
   
Chapel Off Chapel ‘What’s on’
brochure    
Council planning consultation
brochures    
Rate notices
   

Section 2 – About the Survey
This final section of the survey is provided to receive feedback from participants about
the survey.
Q19. Please indicate below your thoughts about this survey. (Please tick as many as
apply)
Easy to complete
Difficult/complex to complete
Easy to understand questions
Difficult to understand questions
Other. Please specify__________________________________
Q20. Do you want to receive feedback on the results of this survey?
Yes
No
Q21a. Would you like to receive future survey by email?
Yes
No
Q21b. If yes, please write your email address
___________________________________________________________________
Q22. Have you any suggestions for improvements to future surveys?
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
This completes the survey. Thank you for your time.

SSG 32 Sustainable Environment Report

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