Can organisations pave the way for sustainability in communities?

Abstract

Organisations are increasingly asked to respond to local environmental issues, however, due to competing interests, initiatives they can often be viewed with skepticism and mistrust. Research on organisationally led initiatives to respond positively to environmental issues is lacking. Using qualitative methodology, this case explores the drivers of a successful sustainable water allocation strategy in the town of Griffith NSW, part of the Murray Darling Basin, facilitated by the local irrigation authority. Data indicated that community engagement in planning and scoping was important in fostering support and project success. Equity in engagement, and facilitation via a combined top-down/bottom-up management style, increased trust. Understanding of the needs of each stakeholder group generated better engagement in the project, regardless of project outcomes, indicating that authentic consultation was a significant factor. This research suggests that given the appropriate stimulus, communities can ‘emerge’ their own sustainability.Previously published in Proceedings of the 9th International Symposium on Sustainable Leadership, Butt, Lorne and Avery, Gayle C. (Eds), p.45-60 (2014)12 page(s