Australian Environment issues
Australia is richly endowed with both non-renewable energy resources such as coal and natural gas, and renewable energy resources such as solar, tidal and wind power.  Energy commodities are a major source of export earnings in Australia and development of these resources in a sustainable manner is a primary policy goal of the country. One of Australia's main objectives in developing a sustainable energy policy is to ensure that the country's energy sector is well placed to take advantage of economic and environmental opportunities and challenges that will emerge both domestically and internationally in coming years.

Australian Greenhouse Calculator is a program that will calculate your yearly greenhouse gas emissions based on the information you have provided. The calculator will also compare your greenhouse emissions with that of a 'typical' house and a 'green' house.

Water and the Environment

Central Highlands Water authority
Responsible for the supply of water and other services within Ballarat. 

Water wise tips
Garden tips for the lawn, mulch, organic matter, watering and using a broom. Inside the home tips for the bathroom, toilet, dishwashers and washing machines. Kitchen tips and checking for hidden leaks.

Water rebates – save money
The Victorian Government, in conjunction with Central Highlands Water and other local water suppliers, is committed to helping you save water.

We are therefore offering Victorians a rebate on eligible water conservation products purchased and installed between 1 January and 31 December 2003.

Under the scheme, households will be limited to a maximum rebate of $320; that is $20 for purchasing water efficient products and $150 each for the purchase and installation of a permanent greywater system and a rainwater tank.

Energy and the Environment

Energy Saving tips.
Tips on saving money and the environment by making your home more energy efficient, room-by-room. Find out about energy ratings on household whitegoods.

What is green electricity?  Or you would you like to to know more about joining Origin Energy GreenEarth.

SolarSaver
If you have a solar hot water unit, you may be able save money on your how water costs.

Waste & Recycling Services within Ballarat

Find out when your bin must go out, what services are offered by Ballarat City Council.

Recycling collection services in Ballarat

Green waste collection service in Ballarat

Conservation & Environment Initiatives

Conservation Volunteers
Who can volunteer, the type of projects, what skills are needed, what to bring, how to get on project, the cost and how to become involved.

Being Sunsmart
Being SunSmart is so easy — you can protect your skin every day!. Learn about the right clothing, shade and sunscreen.

Seedbank
The Ballarat Regional Seedbank, hours of operation, services provided, seed collection, seed sales and contact information.

Books on the Environment

The following list of books are available through any Central Highlands Regional Library branch.
Click a link to view its details.

J 994.02 PYE
Australia's environment : How people have changed the environment
PYERS, Greg

R 333.79 WIL
Wiley encyclopedia of energy and the environment : 2 vols
BISIO, Attilio; BOOTS, Sharon

333.72 WHI
Listen our land is crying : Australia's environment problems and solutions
WHITE, Mary E.

333.72 DOY
Green power : the environment movement in Australia
DOYLE, Timothy

363.1791 IMM
Toxic playground : a guide to reducing the chemical load in schools and childcare centres
IMMIG, Jo

631.5233 AND
Genetic engineering, food, and our environment : a brief guide
ANDERSON, Luke

J 577 FUL
Ecosystems & environment
FULLICK, Ann