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Our Purpose

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The Baw Baw Sustainability Network (BBSN) is a volunteer-driven, not-for-profit organisation established in 2007 to support, connect, and inspire communities across West Gippsland. We are committed to sustainability by encouraging individuals and groups to take practical, informed action. Through collaboration, education, and community-led initiatives, we aim to foster a resilient, low-impact, and thriving future for people and the natural environment.

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Our Vision

Communities living sustainably and flourishing.

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We envision a region where environmental responsibility, social wellbeing, and economic resilience are embedded in everyday life – where communities are informed, prepared, connected, and actively shaping a sustainable future.

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Alignment with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

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Our work is aligned with and contributes to the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

  • SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – We protect our natural environment

  • SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – Everyone lives in a comfortable, energy efficient home

  • SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Planning systems create energy efficient, resource conscious and healthy outcomes

  • SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – We live in a zero-waste society

  • SDG 13: Climate Action – The community is aware of climate change and is actively addressing the causes and effects

  • SDG 15: Life on Land – Most of our food is produced locally and sustainably

 

 

Our Strategic Aims

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1. Build Awareness and Inspire Action

We aim to ensure our community understands climate change and is motivated to address both its causes and impacts.

  • Deliver accessible education and information

  • Share local knowledge, resources, and success stories

  • Promote behaviour change through engagement and outreach

 

 

2. Strengthen Community Resilience

We support communities to prepare for, respond to, and recover from natural disasters.

  • Facilitate resilience-building initiatives

  • Promote local preparedness strategies

  • Encourage community-led solutions to environmental challenges

 

 

3. Advocate for Sustainable Planning and Development

We work toward planning systems that prioritise energy efficiency, resource consciousness, and healthy living environments.

  • Advocate for evidence-based policies and decisions

  • Engage with local government and stakeholders

  • Promote sustainable design and development principles

 

 

4. Enable a Circular, Zero-Waste Society

We strive for a future where waste is minimised and resources are reused responsibly.

  • Support zero-waste initiatives and education

  • Encourage sustainable consumption practices

  • Promote local solutions to reduce landfill and pollution

 

 

5. Support Local and Sustainable Food Systems

We envision a region where most food is produced locally, sustainably, and ethically.

  • Encourage community gardens and local food networks

  • Promote regenerative and sustainable agriculture

  • Connect producers and consumers

 

 

6. Protect and Enhance the Natural Environment

We are committed to preserving biodiversity and natural ecosystems across the region.

  • Support conservation and restoration projects

  • Raise awareness of environmental stewardship

  • Partner with like-minded organisations and community groups

 

 

7. Improve Sustainable Living Standards

We aim for every household to be comfortable, energy efficient, and environmentally responsible.

  • Promote energy-efficient homes and retrofitting

  • Share practical tools and resources for sustainable living

  • Support access to affordable sustainability solutions

 

 

How We Work

BBSN delivers its mission through a collaborative and community-focused approach:

  • Educating and Informing: Providing reliable, practical knowledge to empower action

  • Building Networks: Connecting individuals, groups, and organisations to share ideas and build capability

  • Advocating for Change: Supporting evidence-based decision-making at all levels

  • Delivering Projects: Identifying and implementing practical, local sustainability initiatives

  • Forming Partnerships: Working with stakeholders, organisations, and community members 

 

 

Looking Ahead

Through collaboration, education, and practical action, BBSN seeks to accelerate the transition to a sustainable future in Baw Baw Shire and beyond. Our website will serve as a central hub for knowledge, connection, and inspiration – supporting individuals and communities to take meaningful steps toward sustainability.

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