Conservation of Biodiversity
Conservation of biodiversity is vital for sustainability and a priority of all levels of government. As a developer, it is imperative that we demonstrate a capacity to recognise and address opportunities to marry site rehabilitation and protection of a site's ecology with good social and economic outcomes.
In many cases, a sensitive approach delivers additional amenity to our developments. It can also strengthen our relationships with communities and authorities and offset the investment that would otherwise be required in expensive and unsightly 'hard' infrastructure.
We recognise that almost everything we do will have an ecological impact. But it is possible to develop in such a way that limits that impact, and creates liveable places which encourage future residents to be aware of and protect the environment. With increasing ecological awareness of house purchasers, we believe there is a growing market for this approach.
All the projects discussed in last year's report continue to be developed as they were, i.e. with high standards in place. There have not been any new residential developments commenced during the period.
Management Plans, Including WSUD
The majority of Investa's developments are in the CBD of Australian cities and so have minimal impact on biodiversity. Similarly, most Clarendon Homes are built in existing residential areas. Approximately half of Clarendon Homes are 'knock down, rebuilds' within established urban areas so any impact on biodiversity is further reduced.
For Investa Commercial Developments, as a minimum, a management plan is prepared with sub-plans covering stormwater discharge and monitoring of nutrient levels, chemicals, fertiliser and wildlife protection. More specific and specialised plans are prepared as appropriate to the site. Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) is standard across Investa's commercial (including Industrial) developments.
Approach to Acquisition
During the period Investa did not own or develop any sites in, or adjacent to, protected areas or areas of high biodiversity value outside protected areas.
Clarendon has developed a draft Acquisition Checklist which includes a number of environmental considerations including 'Critical habitat and flora and fauna' and 'environmentally significant land'.
Results
Investa has not received any significant fines or sanctions for non-compliance with environmental laws or regulations in the past year. Nor are there any water bodies and related habitats significantly affected by Investa's discharges of water and runoff.
Case Study
Commitments for Financial Year 2008
- Report actions to enhance ecology of sites.
- Raise standards in design of new developments.
- Report all instances of ecological or heritage significance encountered.
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