This page provides information on the 'natural environment' outcome. It defines the outcome, explains what is being monitored, provides information from the 2007 Baseline report and links to the outcome indicator sheets and various 'stories of success' relating to this outcome.
What is a city of people who value and protect the natural environment?
Our lifestyles reflect our commitment to guardianship of the natural environment in and around Christchurch. We actively work to protect, enhance and restore our environment for future generations.
We will know we are succeeding when:
Everybody takes responsibility for their impact on the natural environment.
- The amount of rubbish sent to landfill decreases.
- More rubbish is recycled.
- Freshwater is conserved and pollutant free.
- Cleaner energy sources are used more often.
- Our reliance upon non-renewable resources declines.
Biodiversity is restored, protected and enhanced.
- Plantings expand in and around Christchurch City.
- Streams and waterways are clean.
- Ecological heritage sites are retained.
We manage our city to minimise damage to the environment.
- We develop solutions for minimising our impact on the environment.
- Our sewage and waste water systems protect the quality of our oceans and freshwater resources.
- Air pollution is reduced.
- Our quality soil reserves are retained and maintained.
What we are monitoring?
Headline indicators
- Waste to landfills
- Liquid waste
- Ground water consumption
- Energy consumption
- Waste recycling
- Recreational water quality
- Biodiversity
Key indicators
- Ground water usage
- Energy usage
- Perceptions of state of the environment
- Green waste recycling
- Land cover
- Land use
- Access to open space
- Climate change
- Motor vehicles
2007 Baseline report
Environmental impacts
- Since 2003 waste to landfill has increased from 651 to 777 kilograms per person. The amount of rubbish recycled over the last eight years has consistently increased to 35,800 tonnes of waste in 2006.
- The proportional use of renewable and non-renewable energy sources over the last 15 years has remained relatively consistent. In 2004 almost two thirds (64 per cent) of Christchurch’s energy use was non-renewable.
Natural places
- In 2005 there were 50 ecological (3126 hectares) heritage sites located within Christchurch. In 2006 all rivers and 16 per cent of beaches exceeded water quality guidelines.
Water management
- Ground water abstraction has remained relatively consistent over the last 15 years; in 2006, 146 cubic metres per person was abstracted.
Community initatives
- Many community groups along with the Council are contributing to improving Christchurch's environment. You can read more in the success stories.
Tell us your stories of success at: monitor@ccc.govt.nz
