In Québec, the law on sustainable development sets out 16 principles that must be taken into account by public organizations in their activities. These principles are a sort of guide to acting with a perspective of sustainable development.
By sustainable and concrete development, we mean a fair balance between economic development, the quality of life of residents and the protection of the environment.
Sustainable and concrete development refers to respect and protection of green spaces, waterways and the improvement of the urban environment of the municipality. It also includes elements of economic and social development.
In a process that emphasises a real balance between the economic development of the municipality and the quality of life of its residents, the municipal council wants to create a Sustainable and Concrete Development Policy for future generations. As for residents, we must develop our ability to attain balance between the protection of the environment, our social concerns and our economic considerations.
Four main principles must guide your interventions during the Châteauguay 2020 Summit :
- the quality of life of residents ;
- the protection of the natural environments and their biodiversity ;
- economic and urban development ;
- encourage social acceptance in environmental matters.
1. The quality of life of residents
A Sustainable and Concrete Development Policy must recognize the importance that the residents give to their quality of life and their environment. The concerns of residents are many and are connected to health, culture, the environment, intra and intergenerational equality and the dynamism of the community and recreational milieu. The Council wants to hear and understand your concerns and priorities.
2. The protection of the natural environments and their biodiversity
In an urban setting like Châteauguay, the natural balance between the animal and plant species is fragile and it is therefore essential to preserve the diverse ecosystems. In order to respond to the concerns in terms of the harmonious integration of the environment of residents, the discussions on this principle must deal with the integration of uses, of activities, of protecting the public places and the conservation of natural environments of interest to the municipality.
3. Economic and urban development
An economic and urban development anxious to improve the quality of life of residents must deal with the challenges and sustainability. As for the environment, public transportation, urban revitalization, public security and the economic needs of the municipality, all of this in conjunction with the protection of its natural environments. How, as residents of Châteauguay, do we want to get there?
4. Encourage social acceptance in environmental matters
In order to develop a sustainable and concrete development policy, all interested parties must work together to succeed. By this principle, the council is looking to unite all of the interested parties in the institutional and educational sectors, business men, social groups, the public and the municipal departments. We are looking to provide ourselves with the tools needed in order to direct development while satisfying the needs of the residents of Châteauguay and while striving for intergenerational equality. What are your suggestions?
To help you join us in researching this subject, here is a list of helpful Internet links and documents to download.
Loi sur le développement durable.pdf
Ministère du Développement Durable, de l’Environnement et des Parc – The principles of sustainable development: a guide for action
