New web portal available to help more sustainable developments

Environment Minister Peter Garrett launched a new interactive web portal in early September 2008 targeted at those involved in creating sustainable urban developments.

Your Development was developed by the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts and the CSIRO in recognition of the growing business trend towards environmental urban developments. The web portal, available at www.yourdevelopment.org, provides case studies on best practice and contains a wealth of information for public and private developers, government agencies, designers, planners and builders. The web portal is being edited by national independent body, Australian Green Development Forum.

The web portal contains more than 60 fact sheets available as free downloads, providing information on all stages of the development process, from planning and design through to construction. By signing up and becoming a member, people will be able to highlight achievements through adding their own case studies and fact sheets whilst gaining a reputation for excellence in environmental building practices.

The web portal will allow the urban development industry to share ideas about the creation of more sustainable neighbourhoods and access information on topics ranging from water and energy efficiency to estate design and site ecology.

Your Development web portal is easy to navigate with a quick browse menu and links to development phases and topic areas., The ‘content’ tab offers a comprehensive search engine for those who want a broad overview of the web portal. The ‘advanced search’ option provides an easy to use and efficient means of focusing your search. Your Development also offers a short online video that provides an easy explanation of the web portal.

Your Development is a unique opportunity for the industry to efficiently access up to date information on key development issues. Visit www.yourdevelopment.org to put yourself ahead of the pack whilst saving time, money and helping the Australian environment.