Environment

The environment of Greater Western Sydney is one of the most diverse yet fragile in Australia. Its forests are the lungs and its catchments are the lifeblood of an ever-expanding Sydney. Within the 8,000 square kilometres of the Greater West lie the majestic Blue Mountains, the mighty Hawkesbury-Nepean river system and the headwaters of Sydney Harbour. In a ring of green that follows the outer borders of the Greater West are some of Australia's finest national parks, river systems and wilderness areas. The region is also home to some of our most unique species of fauna and flora. Almost three-quarters of its plant communities are unique or endemic to the region. Its fauna is equally diverse, with hundreds of species of animals including koalas, eagles, platypuses, echidnas, kangaroos and goannas.

The need to preserve these natural resources against the increasing pressures of urban sprawl and industrial development is one of the region's greatest challenges. Through organisations such as the Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Management Trust, the Greater West is seeking to integrate future development within a philosophy of Total Catchment Management (TCM). With the aim of delivering a healthy, productive, diverse and most of all sustainable environment, the ideals of TCM are being incorporated into the planning and development policies of government and business. All major developments require an Environmental Impact Statement to be completed before construction can begin. Small to medium developments are also regulated by the environmental management policies of local councils.

Another driving force between the conservation of the region's environmental heritage is the thriving tourism opportunities on offer. With appropriate planning and management, these environmental assets will increasingly provide a growing source of employment in the recreation and leisure sector. Niche industries such as 'adventure sport' and 'eco-tourism' are among those expected to add millions of dollars to the local economy over the coming decades.

The NSW Government is committed to the improvement of environmental infrastructure and waste management within the region over the coming decade. The meteorology and topography of the Greater West combine to creation conditions where certain areas act as a sink for airborne pollutants; so the improvement of the region's air quality is another priority for government authorities.