Context for Sustainability

During the conference, all of the ideas and suggestions were to be viewed through what are called the pillars of sustainability.  This would give a coherence to the various outcomes and strategies.

These are the four pillars:  Economy, Social, Culture and Environment.

Some of the other criteria identified by the groups, for a more holistic approach to a sustainable Mahone Bay, included:

• Affordable/attainable goals
• Community led initiatives
• Acceptable to the majority of the community
• Environmental impact
• Heritage
• Demographics
• Identifiable benefits to citizens as well as tourists and merchants
• Build on existing assets so there is a balance between preservation and progress
• If we don't do something will an asset be lost?
• Best return on investment