Given Sustainability Features of NEV

The interplay between environmental, social and economic considerations is deemed as crucial to securing the overall sustainability of the development. Some of the guiding values and objectives are presented here.

Environmental Sustainability

• "Deep green", cutting edge residential development which seeks to utilise best
  ecological technologies and practices available today.
• Village design based on sustainability principles, as utilised successfully in leading
  ecovillages around the world.
• Ecological buildings using passive solar design and sustainably sourced, natural materials.
• Collection and use of rainwater on site.
• Water conservation through grey water recycling.
• Sustainable waste treatment including composting toilet systems, subject to council approval.
• Use of renewable energy sources, such as solar power, with the option to feed back into
  the power grid.
• Composting and recycling of all domestic wastes.
• Use of walking and cycling as the predominant mode of transport within the pedestrian-friendly, human scale village.
• Co-operative transport, such as carpooling, to minimise costs and the environmental
  impact of travel, in addition to enhancing community.
• Preserving purity of air, soil and water through strict ecological standards.
• Organic and/or bio-dynamic agricultural activities.
• Encouragement of local wildlife and the restriction of domestic animals e.g. dogs and cats.
• Preservation and rehabilitation of native vegetation.

Social Sustainability

• Village design that facilitates community interaction and balances our need for private
  space.
• All homes to be within walking distance of the village centre.
• Active participation of residents in community decision-making and governance.
• Training in co-operative dispute resolution procedures to enhance community
  communication and decision making.
• Inclusive community, welcoming the involvement of people from all ages, economic
  circumstances and cultural backgrounds.
• Inclusive of people with disability through accessible design.
• An interdependent culture of mutual support and respect.
• Integration within the wider Central Coast community.
• Provision of a minimum of 10% "affordable" housing.
• A village environment which is ideal for raising children - safe and rich in community with
  naturally designed play areas.
• A community supporting people through all stages of their life.
• Community building through joint activities, celebrations, shared interest groups,
  community organic gardens and much more!
• Prior to living on site, relationships between co-op members will be developed through community involvement in planning the project. This will build long-term ownership and unity within the village.

Economic Sustainability

• Opportunity for a diverse range of enterprises based in a vibrant village centre which
  facilitates work within the Ecovillage.
• Part of the surplus from the village development will be invested in community facilities
  and the establishment of village-based enterprises.
• The investigation of trade in goods and services without cash through Local Energy Trading
  System (LETS).
• Support of local services and produce.
• Shared community facilities and equipment, such as places to celebrate and
  contemplate, barbecues, community sheds and sporting amenities.
• Reduced household and village running costs through inbuilt sustainable energy and water
  systems.