It’s really simple – if there is no clean water and air and healthy soil, we’ll all be dead – unless you’ve got a ticket to a container on Mars. Therefore, it stands to reason that looking after our environment should be at the forefront of all that we do and plan for, which is somewhat different from the way things have been. The value of nature is finally being brought into national agendas.
Here in paradise, we’re generally blessed with clean air due to our lack of heavy industry; if and as that changes, we’ll be more impacted. Healthy soil? Well, yes, in a lot of ways and with the amount of vegetation that thrives in our climate, it’s relatively easy for us to ‘grow’ provided people and municipal entities make compost. More and more farmers are embracing regenerative and organic methods that will help this aspect.
The big elephant in the room in our district (and many others around the country) is the clean water bit, and with over 25 rivers, it makes no sense that we are ever without this vital life-giving element. Many of the current issues are attributed to ageing infrastructure, which is valid up to a point; however, the lack of maintenance, including replacing pipes and pumps, etc., over many years has demonstrated poor planning and understanding of this critical foundation.
Granted, the provision of supply to areas previously not serviced has been important and commendable, except in many cases, also not well planned and implemented, hence the breaks and leaks. The GNU elected in May has created expectations of more positive collaboration between private entities, civic organisations and government, which should result in getting the best and brightest together around a table to find the most advantageous solutions for everyone going forward.
The obvious benefits of protecting our many natural resources include developing and expanding the wonderful eco-tourism opportunities throughout our incredibly beautiful district. Apart from developing strong circular economies, preserving and conserving our deep and diverse cultural heritage, and encouraging entrepreneurial mindsets, hope and dignity could blossom and show a future of possibility for all.
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