FAQs

"What is Sustainability?"

The term 'sustainability' came into popular use following the United Nations Earth Summit in 1992, held in Rio de Janeiro. The term is used to recognise that social, economic and environmental issues are linked and must be addressed together, rather than in the fragmented way they are often dealt with.

"What do we mean by 'the environment' and what has it got to do with me?"

When people think of the environment, it conjures up all sorts of different images. But the environment is not just about the big global issues such as climate change, the ozone layer, and over-fishing of our seas, it's also about your local neighbourhood. So, if you are concerned about crime, education, jobs, and litter and dog poo on your street or your neighbours playing their music too loud, then you are also concerned about "the environment". This integrated approach to improving all aspects of our environment is often referred to as "sustainability".

"What's the point of me taking even small actions to help the environment when nobody else is?"

Sometimes you might wonder what difference your actions could make to the environment when there are so many other people in the world? The answer is - lots!

"What can I do at home?"

Sometimes this all gets so confusing because you do not know where to start. It is a bit like your New Year resolutions - you make so many then end up not being able to stick to any of them! So take a small action, then when you are used to doing things in this new way, you might be ready to add some more. The 10percent challenge will allow you to see how you are progressing through out the year, so you can always do more!!

“What can people in West Sussex recycle?”

West Sussex County Council has its own Recycling Team. Visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/recycling for more information.

"Where is my closest recycling facility?"

The recycling team can provide information on your nearest recycling facilities.

"What can I do?"

You don't have to chain yourself to a tree to be green! Most people lead busy lives and want advice on making small changes that will make a difference to the environment without making life more difficult.

There are so many things you can do at home and in your daily life to be kinder to the environment including:

• Reducing the amount of WASTE that your home throws away
• Greener ways of SHOPPING
• Saving WATER
• Less polluting TRANSPORT
• Saving ENERGY while keeping your home warm.

Remember, you can also use the 10% Challenge calculator to see if you are improving and the difference you've made!

"Where can I find out about the cycle network in West Sussex?"

It is possible to get a map of West Sussex, which outlines the safest cycle routes. The Cycling Officer can tell you where to get this and can respond to any enquiries on cycling in West Sussex.

For further information contact: Travelwise, Tel: 01243 777161 Or visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/travelwise

"Where can I get information on 'green' energy and suppliers?"

One of the easiest ways to cut down carbon dioxide emissions is to switch your electricity supply to renewable energy. Most of the major companies now offer a 'green' tariff and many are the same price as standard electricity.

Global Action Plan ( www.globalactionplan.org.uk) provide details of companies providing "green" electricity tariffs. This information can be found at www.globalactionplan.org.uk.

"How can I find out about "greener" transport?"

Global Action Plan has excellent information and a step-by-step guide on greener transport, which can be found at www.globalactionplan.org.uk. For information on public transport in West Sussex, go to www.westsussex.gov.uk/travelwise.