Local Ecosystems, Coastal Management, Sustainability & Climate Change

The CEC Knowledge Gateway is expanding to become a one-stop-shop for the information needed by residents and businesses of Sydney's Northern Beaches to transition to more sustainable ways of living and working. As a coastal community, priority environmental issues include:

Biodiversity conservation and ecosystem health Energy and water conservation Water quality Global climate change and its anticipated impacts The protection and enhancement of our local environment is a high priority for Pittwater residents. Learning more about our natural heritage - the bushland, native plants and animals, and the health of our catchments and waterways is the first step to taking action that leads to more ecologically sustainable management of our natural resources. Major issues in natural resource management in the Pittwater area are declining water quality, native vegetation loss and conservation of biodiversity, including threatened species.

Through the Natural Environment and Education Unit and the Coastal Environment Centre, Council delivers a wide range of programs and information to develop public appreciation and knowledge for the environment and to foster a sense of community stewardship for its care. New bushwalking tracks and boardwalks have enhanced public access to natural areas. 

The Coastal Environment Centre offers an ongoing program of events throughout the year targeting priority issues. Many of these events are led by expert volunteers. Some programs are funded through grants and sponsorships. Community Environmental Education through the CEC is undertaken using a range of methods, including:

Information provision Lectures and talks Outdoor education Guided interpretive walks Seminars and workshops Volunteers in Community Action Programs Partnership programs Mentoring and facilitated support

Community Education and Engagement Programs include:

• Community Creekcare Program
• Coastal Ambassadors Program
• Environment/Sustainable Living Events

Demonstration Site for Renewable Energy Technology

At the CEC, our role includes guiding community learning to support the goal of becoming a carbon neutral community. 

Renewable energy technologies and energy efficiency features are being retrofitted to our existing building (built 1990) to showcase applications for home owners. Our solar panels were installed on Tuesday 17 June 2008. See a full list of the CEC sustainability features here. Local residents will be able to drop in to the Centre for a guided tour of our PV (photovoltaic) installation in operation, and learn about renewable energy applications for their own home on Sustainable House Day (annual event).

Updated: 27 Jul 2012