16.Urban biodiversity
Canberra enjoys the benefits of a rich and diverse urban ‘forest’, realising the vision of its original planners. Fundamental to this ‘bush capital’ vision is the interconnectedness of Canberra’s hills and open space that provides a valued ecological resource including for some endangered species and communities, as well as contributing to the community’s wellbeing and sense of place. Canberra’s urban forest also provides a rich ecological resource and refuge. This constructed landscape requires continued management and rejuvenation.
The measurable target
Defining and setting a measurable target depends on more foundational work. It is likely to be a type of urban habitat–hectare measure that combines biodiversity area, value and condition.
| OUTCOMES | OUTPUTS | ACTIONS |
|---|---|---|
|
Intermediate Provision for enhancing urban biodiversity values and functions is incorporated into development decisions, management plans and local neighbourhood actions (2015) Long-term Healthy and resilient urban biodiversity, at local and landscape scale (2030) Canberra has established a strong international reputation as a ‘bush’ capital and is widely used as a best practice case study (2030) |
Foundation Develop targets and indicators for urban biodiversity Map Canberra’s urban biodiversity On-ground Rehabilitate and enhance urban biodiversity in open spaces and backyards Enhance connected habitats and corridors across Canberra Construct wetlands Collaborate with stakeholders on incorporating urban biodiversity into new greenfields developments Develop provisions for urban biodiversity to be considered in planning and land management Raise the profile of urban biodiversity in the community Involve schoolchildren through the Sustainable Schools Initiative Review development of East O’Malley in terms of success of biodiversity and tree protection in relation to the original proposal, and use any results for informing other greenfields developments Review potential threats to urban biodiversity, such as prescribed burning, due to fuel management requirements in the urban fringe Develop a biosphere reserve proposal for the ACT |
