Green

Infrastructure

Survey

Prepared for the

Botanic Gardens

of Adelaide

July 2013

CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ............................................................................................................................ 1

1. INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................................. 3

1.1. THE GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT ..................................................................................................................... 3

2. KEY RESULTS .................................................................................................................................. 4

2.1. UNDERSTANDING OF GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE ......................................................................................................... 4

2.1.1. First encounter with the term Green Infrastructure ..................................................................................................... 4

2.1.2. Understanding of the term Green Infrastructure ......................................................................................................... 5

2.2. GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE IMPORTANCE AND PRIORITIES .......................................................................................... 7

2.2.1. Green Infrastructure benefits ....................................................................................................................................... 8

2.2.2. Importance of different Green Infrastructure elements ............................................................................................... 9

2.2.3. Priority of Green Infrastructure .................................................................................................................................. 11

2.2.4. Priorities for Green Infrastructure .............................................................................................................................. 13

2.2.5. Ideal urban environment ............................................................................................................................................ 15

2.3. INTEREST, AWARENESS AND CAPACITY IN GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE ....................................................................... 17

2.4. BARRIERS TO DELIVERY OF GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE .............................................................................................. 20

2.5. USEFUL RESOURCES ................................................................................................................................................. 22

2.6. APPLICATION OF GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE .............................................................................................................. 23

2.6.1. Projects ....................................................................................................................................................................... 23

2.6.2. Policies or guidelines ................................................................................................................................................... 25

2.7. PROFILE OF RESPONDENTS ...................................................................................................................................... 26

2.7.1. Field of work ............................................................................................................................................................... 26

2.7.2. Type of work ............................................................................................................................................................... 27

2.7.3. Sector .......................................................................................................................................................................... 27

3. APPENDICES ................................................................................................................................. 28

3.1. APPENDIX 1: UNDERSTANDING OF GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE .................................................................................. 28

3.2. APPENDIX 2: PRIORITIES FOR GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE ........................................................................................... 30

3.3. APPENDIX 3: IDEAL URBAN ENVIRONMENT ............................................................................................................. 33

3.4. APPENDIX 4: BARRIERS TO GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE DELIVERY ............................................................................... 36

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Sustainable Focus was engaged by the Botanic Gardens of Adelaide (BGA) to undertake a baseline survey for the Green Infrastructure Project. The aim of the survey was to build understanding about current perceptions and knowledge in relation to Green Infrastructure in South Australia as well as gather information about project examples and priorities. The survey was completed by 76 people from the fields of planning, policy, design, water management and horticulture.

The Green Infrastructure Project at the Botanic Gardens of Adelaide is working together with government, industry and community towards the achievement of the vision: South Australians living in healthy, resilient and beautiful landscapes that sustain and connect people with plants and places. Green Infrastructure describes the network of green spaces and water systems that deliver multiple environmental, economic and social values and benefits.

Understanding of Green Infrastructure

The majority of survey respondents (i.e. 36%) first heard the term Green Infrastructure through a colleague or their workplace. Over a quarter of respondents (26%) had not come across the term before undertaking the survey.

Respondents were asked an open-ended question about their understanding of the term Green Infrastructure. Responses were varied, however a number of common themes arose. The most common feature relating to responses was understanding the term Green Infrastructure to incorporate natural, green or living elements within the urban environment. Other themes included: water; an environmentally sensitive approach; a contrast between ‘green’ and ‘grey’ infrastructure; holistic responses including the provision of environmental, social and/or economic values; connectivity between people and places; food potential; and climate change mitigation and/or adaptation.

Green Infrastructure importance and priorities

Green Infrastructure was considered a very important issue by the overwhelming majority of survey respondents. Eight seven percent (87%) of respondents stated that they consider Green Infrastructure to be either ‘very’ or ‘extremely’ important for the planning and design of urban environments in South Australia.

Survey respondents were asked to rate the importance of numerous potential benefits of Green Infrastructure. Temperature moderation was rated the most significant benefit with 64% of participants indicating it was ‘extremely important’. Psychological well-being and air quality followed in order of importance.

Participants also rated the importance of different elements of Green Infrastructure. Parks and reserves were rated as ‘very important’ or ‘extremely important’ by all respondents. This was followed by street trees.

Questions about the priority of Green Infrastructure were asked in relation to different sectors. The majority of respondents (77-82%) stated that they ‘strongly agree’ Green Infrastructure should be a priority for State and Local Government as well as developers, however significantly fewer believe that Green Infrastructure is currently a priority in any of these sectors. Thirty one percent (31%) ‘mostly’ or ‘strongly’ disagree that Green Infrastructure is currently a priority for Local Government; 41% disagree it is a priority for State Government and 77% disagree that Green Infrastructure is a priority for developers in South Australia.

Respondents were asked an open-ended question to list their top three priorities for Green Infrastructure in South Australia. Responses were diverse and the most frequent themes were related to: water; enhancing or protecting open space, bushland, reserves and the park lands;

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creating ecological, green or biological linkages or corridors; regulation; education or participation and street trees.

When asked to describe their ideal urban environment the most frequently used terms included gardens, local, walking, street trees and open space.

Interest, awareness and capacity in Green Infrastructure

Participants responded to a number of statements related to capacity in Green Infrastructure. The statement that was most strongly agreed to was ‘I advocate for Green Infrastructure in my work’, closely followed by ‘I would like to further develop my knowledge and/or skills in the area of Green Infrastructure’.

Survey respondents were asked about another set of statements related to awareness of existing Green Infrastructure projects and resources. Sixty percent (60%) of respondents were aware of the Green Infrastructure Project before undertaking this survey. There was generally a medium level of awareness of other related resources amongst survey participants. Most encouragingly, 70% of participants said they would contribute to the collection of information and examples of Green Infrastructure.

Barriers to delivery of Green Infrastructure

The major’ barrier to delivery of Green Infrastructure that was identified by the highest number of people as a ‘barrier was lack of political interest, followed by limited access to resources or finance. Design or construction barriers were identified as the least significant barrier.

Useful resources

Respondents indicated that the most effective resource type for increasing the capacity to understand and/or implement Green Infrastructure is case studies (79% of respondents), followed by tours and site visits (63%), written resources (60%) and training or courses (59%).

Application of Green Infrastructure

The survey has gathered information about existing Green Infrastructure projects across a range of themes and elements including: gardens/green walls, water related projects, housing/developments, linear parks/greenways/bike-ways, streetscapes/parks, restoration/planting projects, and others. Respondents also provided examples of principles and standards related to Green Infrastructure.

Profile of respondents

The majority of respondents (69%) work in the environment/conservation field. At 38%, the type of work most strongly represented was on-ground delivery/operations (this included landscape design/architecture), followed by policy/strategy. The largest sector represented by survey participants was State Government (32%), followed by private industry then Local Government.

The survey results demonstrate that Green Infrastructure is considered to be of great importance by respondents and should be prioritised by State and Local Government as well as developers. While understanding of the term is varied and possibly reflects the interests of respondents, encouragingly, a large number of participants in the survey demonstrated a strong understanding of the concept and in particular the important role of water.

The large amount of qualitative and quantitative information gathered through this survey should assist with designing communications to reach different and new audiences as well as targeting resources of the Green Infrastructure project most effectively. It will be important to continue working in partnership with other programs and organisations that are aiming to raise the profile of Green Infrastructure in South Australia to ensure coordinated and complementary approaches.

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1. INTRODUCTION

Sustainable Focus was engaged by the Botanic Gardens of Adelaide (BGA) in March 2013 to undertake a baseline survey for the Green Infrastructure Project. The aim of the survey was to build understanding about current perceptions and knowledge in relation to Green Infrastructure in South Australia as well as gather information about project examples and priorities.

The survey was designed jointly by Natasha Davis of Sustainable Focus and Sheryn Pitman, Project Officer for the Green Infrastructure Project at the BGA. The survey was pilot tested by people working within the Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources (DEWNR).

Once pilot testing was complete, the survey was circulated to people in the fields of planning, policy, design, water management and horticulture. Seventy six (76) people undertook the survey and the key results are provided in this report.

It is recommended that follow-up survey(s) be conducted as the Green Infrastructure Project progresses to identify developments and changes in perceptions, knowledge and priorities in relation to Green Infrastructure in South Australia over time.

1.1. THE GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT

The Green Infrastructure Project at the Botanic Gardens of Adelaide is working together with government, industry and community towards the achievement of the vision: South Australians living in healthy, resilient and beautiful landscapes that sustain and connect people with plants and places. The Project is a Botanic Gardens of Adelaide initiative and is currently supported by Renewal SA, the Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure, and the Adelaide and Mt Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Board.

Green Infrastructure describes the network of green spaces and water systems that deliver multiple environmental, economic and social values and benefits. It includes parks and reserves, backyards and gardens, waterways and wetlands, streets and transport corridors, pathways and greenways, squares and plazas, urban farms and orchards, roof gardens and living walls, sports fields and cemeteries. Green Infrastructure provides and connects vital life support systems for urban environments.

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2. KEY RESULTS

2.1. UNDERSTANDING OF GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE

2.1.1. First encounter with the term Green Infrastructure

Respondents were asked when they first encountered the term Green Infrastructure. The largest number of respondents indicated they first heard the term through a colleague or their workplace (n= 25; 36%) (see Figure 1). Over a quarter of respondents (26%) had not come across the term before undertaking this survey. Other sources mentioned were ‘Landcape Architecture studies and magazine’, ‘university education’ and ‘Local Government Association’.

Figure 1: When respondents first encountered the term Green Infrastructure

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2.1.2. Understanding of the term Green Infrastructure

Respondents were asked an open-ended question about their understanding of the term Green Infrastructure. Responses to this question were varied and were analysed qualitatively for common themes. The most common feature relating to responses was understanding the term Green Infrastructure to incorporate natural, green or living elements within the urban environment. This theme was mentioned in about 20 responses, with some examples including:

Living things amongst the concrete.

The incorporation of vegetation, particularly trees, in the urban environment.

Green infrastructure relates to the provision of "green spaces" in various forms, such as parks and gardens, green walls, transport corridors and other community spaces.

Anything that provides green things in our communities, e.g. vertical gardens, street landscaping, parks, reserves, linear parks, street trees, village squares with shade trees, urban farms, etc.

A small number of responses included water within this definition, for example:

It relates to the use of natural resources in the public realm, e.g. green space, landscape, WSUD [Water Sensitive Urban Design].

Another theme was that Green Infrastructure adopts an environmentally sensitive approach.

Building infrastructure in an environmentally responsible manner, which is eco sensitive and sustainable in all stages of the project from the design through to the construction and the maintenance of the project. All outcomes should have only positive benefits to the environment, no negative impacts.

Public and privately built infrastructure with good environmental ‘cred’.

Three respondents specifically contrasted ‘Green’ and ‘Grey’ or traditional infrastructure.

Assets which relate to open space/public realm/environment which do not necessarily utilize "hard" traditional engineering solutions.

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There were a number of holistic responses that mentioned numerous benefits or features of

Green Infrastructure, including the provision of environmental, social, and/or economic values.

I understand it is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of infrastructure, that it is a separate term from grey infrastructure, and includes all organic forms of the built environment, the role of water, the social benefits and the economic implications.

The creation of living, breathing, connected, sustainable and biodiverse habitats across our urban spaces for enduring benefits to community, society and the greater environment as a whole.

The use of vegetation in the urban environment to enhance the amenity, ecology and air quality (including air temperature), and to provide attractive open space to encourage social interaction and wellbeing.

Green Infrastructure describes green spaces and water systems that by being accessible to all people can deliver multiple benefits for the environment and beneficially influence economic and social values.

Greening of urban environments to improve amenity, liveability, sustainability.

Connectivity between people and places also featured in a few definitions:

Living places that are part of, not separate from, resilient natural ecosystems.

Care for existing and establishment of new networks of green spaces and water ways that provide social, environmental and economic benefits to communities. This can be parks and gardens, wetlands, water ways, corridors, and interconnectedness with public open space and private open space.

The facilities and spaces that connect living things and the natural environment.

Food potential and climate change mitigation and/or adaptation were also each mentioned a small number of times.

See Appendix 1 for full results.

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2.2. GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE IMPORTANCE AND PRIORITIES

Survey respondents were asked four questions relating to the perceived importance of Green Infrastructure as well as the importance they place on different elements or potential benefits of Green Infrastructure. Green Infrastructure was considered a very important issue by the overwhelming majority of survey respondents (see Figure 2). Eighty seven (87%) per cent of respondents stated that they consider Green Infrastructure to be either ‘very’ or ‘extremely’ important for the planning and design of urban environments in South Australia.

Figure 2: Perceived importance of Green Infrastructure

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2.2.1. Green Infrastructure benefits

Survey respondents were asked to rate the importance of different potential benefits of Green Infrastructure on a five scale rating ranging from ‘not at all important’ (Score of 1) to ‘extremely important’ (Score of 5). To facilitate interpretation of the survey responses, the ordinal rankings as to importance have been interpreted as a nominal likert scale of 1-5.

Temperature moderation was rated the most signficant benefit, with a mean score of 4.5 and a 64% rating as ‘extremely important’ (see Table 1). Air quality and psychological well-being followed, both receiving a mean score of 4.41.

Table 1: Perceived importance of potential benefits of Green Infrastructure

Importance

Answer options Not at

all (1)

Slightly

(2)

Moderately

(3)

Very

(4)

Extremely

(5)

Unsure

Mean

score

Temperature

moderation

0% 0% 11% 23% 64% 1% 4.5

Air quality 0% 1% 14% 25% 59% 1% 4.4

Psychological well-

being

1% 0% 10% 33% 55% 1% 4.4

Biodiversity

conservation

0% 3% 15% 23% 58% 1% 4.3

Attractive living

spaces

0% 0% 10% 42% 47% 1% 4.3

Recreation and

relaxation

0% 1% 11% 44% 42% 1% 4.2

Water quality

improvement

0% 3% 11% 27% 55% 4% 4.2

Energy efficiency 1% 0% 14% 27% 54% 4% 4.2

Human physical

health

0% 3% 15% 34% 47% 1% 4.2

Water harvesting 0% 4% 15% 31% 47% 3% 4.1

Play spaces 0% 1% 22% 42% 33% 1% 4.0

Flood protection 0% 4% 24% 31% 39% 1% 4.0

Noise reduction 3% 7% 26% 31% 32% 1% 3.8

Social interaction 1% 3% 26% 48% 21% 1% 3.8

Property values 1% 12% 27% 33% 23% 3% 3.6

Commercial

vitality

0% 18% 30% 40% 8% 4% 3.3

1 Due to the sample size, small variations in mean scores cannot be considered statistically significant.

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2.2.2. Importance of different Green Infrastructure elements

Survey respondents were also asked to rate the importance of different elements of Green Infrastructure. Parks and reserves were rated by all respondents as ‘very important’ or ‘extremely important’, with a mean rating of 4.8 (see Table 2). This was followed by street trees with a mean of 4.7 and the following five elements all receiving a mean score of 4.6: Public gardens, Biodiversity corridors, Wetlands, Local creeks, and Bike paths and Pedestrian walkways.

Table 2: Perceived importance of Green Infrastructure elements

Importance

Answer Options Not at

all (1)

Slightly

(2)

Moderately

(3)

Very

(4)

Extremely

(5)

Unsure Mean

score

Parks and reserves 0% 0% 0% 22% 78% 0% 4.8

Street trees 0% 3% 3% 20% 74% 0% 4.7

Public gardens 0% 0% 5% 32% 62% 0% 4.6

Wetlands 0% 0% 5% 31% 64% 0% 4.6

Local creeks 0% 0% 5% 24% 70% 0% 4.6

Biodiversity corridors 0% 1% 7% 23% 69% 0% 4.6

Bike paths and

pedestrian walkways

0% 1% 4% 26% 69% 0% 4.6

Linear parks and

greenways

0% 1% 5% 31% 62% 0% 4.5

Walkable streets 0% 0% 8% 26% 65% 1% 4.5

Lakes and reservoirs 0% 1% 12% 32% 54% 0% 4.4

Private gardens 0% 1% 18% 37% 44% 0% 4.2

Urban farms and

orchards

1% 4% 16% 42% 36% 0% 4.1

Sports fields 1% 3% 18% 42% 36% 0% 4.1

Community gardens 1% 5% 18% 42% 34% 0% 4.0

Community plazas 0% 9% 20% 38% 31% 1% 3.9

Roof gardens 3% 16% 34% 20% 27% 0% 3.5

Green walls 4% 16% 33% 23% 24% 0% 3.5

Cemeteries 5% 14% 39% 30% 12% 0% 3.3

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Other elements identified by respondents were:

Regional native flora centres which showcase the local flora of a particular region.

Riparian corridors and coastal areas.

One person commented:

‘You need a definition of what a park and reserve actually is because it means different

things; linear or corridors are NOT preferential for biodiversity, rather ecological linkages.

SA is 15 years behind on this concept!’

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2.2.3. Priority of Green Infrastructure

A further question relating to Green Infrastructure priorities asked for responses to a number of statements depicted in Figure 3. Results included:

• Thirty eight percent (38%) of respondents said they ‘somewhat agree’ that Green Infrastructure is (currently) a priority for both Local and State Government in South Australia

• Sixty seven percent (67%) of survey respondents stated they ‘mostly disagree’ or ‘strongly disagree’ that Green Infrastructure is a priority for developers

• Seventy seven percent (77%) of people stated they ‘strongly agree’ Green Infrastructure should be a priority for Local Government, 82% ‘strongly agree’ Green Infrastructure should be a priority for State Government and 80% strongly agree Green Infrastructure should be a priority for developers

• Sixty five percent (65%) of respondents ‘strongly disagree’ with the statement that Green Infrastructure is more a luxury than a necessity.

Figure 3: Priority of Green Infrastructure

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Comments received under this question included:

Green infrastructure is more of a luxury than a necessity only because of building costs.

Green Infrastructure does have an impact on property values, but we should be more concerned about creating places that are liveable, and that necessitates green infrastructure.

Community/suburban resilience is now the priority. Have a look at the Perth biodiversity guidelines for some ideas about engaging and working with local governments to undertake a biodiversity strategy.

Unless the state government REQUIRES/LEGISLATES/ENFORCES, green infrastructure will not progress voluntarily except at a much slower rate.

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Community growing – food or natives.

Making green space in domestic properties.

Allowing space in new housing blocks for trees and gardens

2.2.4. Priorities for Green Infrastructure

Respondents were asked to share their top three priorities for Green Infrastructure in South Australia through open-ended responses. Complete responses are provided in Appendix 2 and this section provides an overview of responses across all three priorities.

There was considerable diversity in the responses. The most frequent themes for respondents’ were:

• Related to water including mandating water sensitive design, stormwater harvesting, clean water, etc. (over 20 responses mentioned this theme across the three priorities) – for example:

Finalisation of policy mandating WSUD [Water Sensitive Urban Design] (e.g. stormwater quality targets).

Integrated water cycle management and reconnection of the community to the natural watercycle.

Stormwater harvesting and use.

• Enhancing or protecting open space, bushland, reserves and the park lands (around 15 responses related to this theme) – for example:

Expansion of open space network.

Green spaces accessible to all to prevent nature deficit disorder.

• Biodversity or use of native plants was a related theme that was also mentioned around 15 times.

• Related to private or community gardens or food production (13 responses), for example:

• Education or participation including the statement ‘citizen initiated referenda’ (13 responses on this theme) – for example:

Educating professionals and the public of the benefits.

Industry awareness.

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Soft landscape and WSUD to suppress heat island effect

• Expressly related to the theme of connectivity (around 10 responses on this theme) – for example:

Ecological linkages across the state and city.

Green walkways.

Green spaces as a community tool connecting people and places.

• Regulation including the suggestion of a minimum green star rating for all infastructure projects (eight responses on this theme) – for example:

Review of building regulations to encourage green architecture with low embodied materials.

• Trees (eight responses on this theme) – for example:

Designing streets for large trees that maximize tree health.

• Related to heat island effect or climate change mitigation (seven responses).

• Related to transport infrastructure (also mentioned seven times).

• Demonstration projects or assessment of benefits (mentioned six times).

Other themes mentioned included changes to the planning system, natural playscapes, government funding, a Green Infrastructure strategy, replicating native flora centres throughout the State, renewable energy and wind power, accountability, increasing densities of communities,

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2.2.5. Ideal urban environment

Respondents were asked to describe their ideal urban environment (see Appendix 3 for full results). The most frequent words used in the responses are presented in the box below, and the larger the font size, the more often the word was mentioned. ‘Gardens’ was mentioned in 15 of the 53 responses, followed by ‘local’ (14 times), ‘walking’ and ‘street trees’ (12 times) and ‘open space’ (10 times). A selection of responses is also provided reflecting the diversity of descriptions.

Active Gardens Harvesting Hear Landscaping Local

Open Space Passive Pocket Parks Productive Promoting

Street Trees Surrounded Walking

A pedestrian and cycle orientated development with access to quality open space, opportunities for play and interaction with the natural environment. Access to a broad range of small businesses that offer unique goods and services. Local sports clubs to participate with and support. Connectivity with the broader urban and natural environment.

Tall street trees with good shade. Backyards that are moderate in size but not small/tiny. Should be enough at least for a vegie garden and relaxing in. Lots of community parks. Local native plants used for the majority of garden landscapes (including in formal and informal design) but not exclusively - other garden designs and plants are also important. Corridors for walking, cycling, biodiversity. Water sensitive urban design. Great public transport infrastructure. Community gardens with vegie swap and local produce available for purchase... and a great bakery and coffee shop within walking distance!

"Connected” green space. Good provision of community facilities. Buffers between potential conflicting land use. Quality public realm with well considered urban design. Logical mix of residential density. More local centres promoting shopping/socialising locally.

Integrated water cycle management within a catchment, water is collected used and treated locally as much as possible. Green open spaces that connect people and places so that people are encouraged to minimise car use. Food production part of the urban environment.

Green, healthy ecosystems with high educational and passive recreational opportunities.

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Environmentally rather than industry driven construction. Native bushland sacrosanct, with maintenance and additions planned. Reduction in use of cars, particularly commuters, with emphasis on public and alternative transportation. Onsite capture and management of water. Onsite capture and management of solar. Integrated multi-function open space incorporating recreational, sporting, amenity and biodiversity needs. High density hub focused, urban living - Adelaide needs to "grow up" in this regard!!

Safe urban streets with clean, wide walkable pavements. Access to at least a pocket park within 10 minutes’ walk from all dwellings. Low rise housing with use of green roofs and walls for rainwater harvesting, temperature and noise reduction. Wetlands for water recycling.

A 30% open space model with multi-functional spaces incorporating alternative and clean energy transport including safe bike paths, conservation spaces, food production and community spaces.

Biodiverse, productive, peaceful, entertaining, social.

Lots of 'green' of many textures, shapes and colours - all native and drought tolerant local species. Plant species that enhance opportunities for wildlife as well as physical structures such as bird boxes, bat boxes, homes for native bees. Lots of interconnected walkways to get around the space easily, surrounded by beautiful, safe, open spaces.

Invites people to be outside, safe, beautiful, clean, quiet, provides sense of community and vibrancy, encourages cycling and walking over vehicular traffic and is a safe environment to do so.

Water sensitive. Climate sensitive. Designed for reduced car dependence, promoting active streets and communities, Spaces designed for the environment and people.

No front fences, tall tree canopies, a park within walking distance that has a mix of space, informal and formal landscaping and nature play. A borrowed landscape or view of hills or ocean.

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2.3. INTEREST, AWARENESS AND CAPACITY IN GREEN

INFRASTRUCTURE

Survey participants were asked to respond to a number of statements broadly related to capacity in Green Infrastructure by rating each from ‘strongly disagree’ (Score of 1) to ‘strongly agree’ (Score of 5). The statements and results are shown in Table 3.

The statement which had the highest mean (4.2) was ‘I advocate for Green Infrastructure in my work’, which was closely followed by the statement ‘I would like to further develop my knowledge and/or skills in the area of Green Infrastructure (mean of 4.1).

Table 3: Responses to statements relating to capacity in Green Infrastructure

Agreement

Answer Options Strongly

disagree

(1)

Mostly

disagree

(2)

Somewhat

agree

(3)

Mostly

agree

(4)

Strongly

agree

(5)

Unsure or

don’t know

Mean

score

I advocate for Green

Infrastructure in my

work

4% 4% 13% 21% 56% 1% 4.2

I would like to further

develop my knowledge

and/or skills in the

area of Green

Infrastructure

3% 3% 17% 30% 46% 1% 4.1

I have seen or am

aware of examples of

Green Infrastructure in

my local environment

(work or home)

3% 10% 14% 38% 36% 0% 3.9

I am aware of the

evidence that

demonstrates the

benefits of Green

Infrastructure to urban

communities

0% 8% 13% 35% 40% 4% 3.9

Green Infrastructure is

a high priority for my

work

3% 14% 14% 30% 38% 1% 3.8

I know where to find

relevant information

and resources about

Green Infrastructure

4% 14% 18% 31% 31% 1% 3.7

There is interest at my

workplace about

Green Infrastructure

3% 11% 24% 25% 35% 1% 3.7

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Comments received in response to this question included:

I believe education is the key to Green Infrastructure so I would strongly advocate for workshops, seminars, training and development in the concepts and benefits of Green Infrastructure across all communities and organisations.

(I) advocate for water sensitive infrastructure in my work. I believe it is critical to ensure green infrastructure is water sensitive if multi objectives are to be realised.

Participants were asked to respond to a second set of statements related to awareness of existing projects and resources (see Figure 4 for results):

• Sixty per cent (60%) of respondents were aware of the Green Infrastructure project before undertaking this survey

• Forty one per cent (41%) were aware of the Green Infrastructure Evidence Base report and a similar number (42%) were aware of the Green Infrastructure Working Paper

• Forty percent (40%) had previously used Sustainable Landscapes resources, 36% had used the Sustainable Landscapes Project plant selector tool and 36% had been on a tour or function coordinated by the Sustainable Landscapes or Green Infrastructure projects

• Fifty three per cent (53%) were aware of the the term ‘Nature Deficit Disorder’.

Most encouragingly, seventy percent (70%) said they would contribute to the collection of information and examples of Green Infrastructure (e.g. through an on-line tool).

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Figure 4: Responses relating to awareness and involvement in Sustainable Landscapes and/or Green Infrastructure projects

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2.4. BARRIERS TO DELIVERY OF GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE

Survey participants were asked about barriers to the delivery of Green Infrastructure. The barrier that was identified by the most number of people as a ‘major’ barrier was lack of political interest (n=38), followed by limited access to resources or finance (n=31) (see Figure 5). Design or construction barriers were identified as the least significant ‘major’ barrier.

Further analysis of the responses relating to barriers to the delivery of Green Infrastructure was undertaken by sector (see Figures in Appendix 4). This reveals that:

• limited access to resources or finance is perceived as a major barrier for state government

• maintenance requirements are a minor or moderate barrier for local government

• lack of incentives is a major barrier for private industry.

Figure 5: Barriers to delivery of Green Infrastructure

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Comments provided under this question included:

It is the combination of the multiple moderate barriers that collectively become a major barrier to delivery.

Too much focus on "low maintenance" these days... these budget decisions are ruining the future of our children. And since when did trees become so evil!

Not yet seeing it adequately represented in the triple bottom line or BCR. Lack of interest/perceived need still seems to be the main barrier. Lack of understanding by decision makers is also a challenge (Green infrastructure to many still just means trees or amenity...).

Expense, difficulty in retrofitting, long consultation lead times (and heavy burden on consultation resourcing) are major obstacles. Other (barrier) is that projects are supplementary to other work, not seen as an outcome in themselves, i.e. hard to promote in the way that a bridge or building can be, such as having a naming status.

An obscure term like "green infrastructure" is a turnoff. If you talk about gardens, sports fields etc. people will know what you mean and will agree these things need attention.

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2.5. USEFUL RESOURCES

The question relating to the usefulness of different resources for increasing capacity to understand and/or implement Green Infrastructure identified that case studies were rated as most effective by 79% of respondents, followed by tours and site visits (63% of respondents), written resources (60%) and training or courses (59%).

Figure 6 identifies the resources that were selected by sector. Comments or other suggestions were invited and these included:

Proof of concept- where it has worked and how it might be adapted.

Research on costs across the asset life.

Web based resources.

Maintenance costs recognised and built into projects, rather than once off up-front payment mentality. Thinking once the initial investment has been delivered that the project has been completed.

Figure 6: Resources or assistance needed to increase capacity to understand and/or implement

Green Infrastructure

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2.6. APPLICATION OF GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE

One of the purposes of the survey was to gather information about existing projects as well examples of Green Infrastructure principles being incorporated into policies or guidelines.

2.6.1. Projects

The examples of projects provided by survey respondents are summarised in Table 4 by theme. The Aldinga Eco-Village was mentioned a few times.

Table 4: Examples of existing Green Infrastructure projects provided by survey respondents.

Green Infrastructure theme/element Project example(s)

Gardens/green walls Community garden 'allotments' in aged care facilities such as Lutheran Homes Inc.

The Old School Community Garden, Stirling

Wall gardens, e.g. entrance to Adelaide Zoo (and roofs in zoo)

Community gardens

Green wall in the offices of the Barbara Hardy Institute at UniSA

Water related projects Urrbrae Wetlands

Tea Tree Gully water harvesting

Burnside Council stormwater diversions where low flows run to irrigate parks and only high flows run to stormwater system

Salisbury wetlands

Former Highbury aquaduct passage redevelopment

The Playford Council area Wetlands and Aquifer recharge program

Glenelg to Adelaide Pipeline

Housing/developments Aldinga Arts Eco Village

Flinders investment in Tonsley Park

Lochiel Park development

Christies Walk (green housing development)

Mawson Lakes has elements of green infrastructure

Linear parks/greenways/bike-ways

River Torrens Linear Park

Greenways bike paths, green bike lanes in the city to better identify bike lanes

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Green Infrastructure theme/element Project example(s)

Streetscapes/parks Use of verges, e.g. Windsor St, Unley

Treenet/street tree trials

Roadside plantings in Unley

Unley nesting box/bird bath projects

Goodwood Junction Upgrade - small community engagement (wildlife/planting) aspects of this project

The Mile End Common at Mile End is a fantastic example of a great urban park with a lot of work done to improve the amenity of the surrounding streets, a real commuity asset

Adelaide Park Lands, Coast Park

Potential for Leigh Street to become a green infrastructure project and Bank Street trial project has 'greened' that location

Restoration/planting projects Trees for Life

Urban Forest - Willunga Creek Project

Other SA mini wind trial

City of Victor Harbor renewable energy program

Barossa Bushgardens Regional Native Flora Centre, Nuriootpa

Where communities have lobbied for green infrastructure (e.g. Bauer in Seattle lobbied for 1800 street trees to be planted)

Resources/references Living Building challenge website

"Landscape Architecture"

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2.6.2. Policies or guidelines

Respondents were also asked for examples of principles or guidelines incorporating Green Infrastructure principles or standards. Fifteen people responded that they were aware of relevant principles, standards or guidelines, and the suggestions they listed are provided are in Table 5.

Table 5: Examples of Green Infrastructure principles or standards

Examples provided by survey respondents

For State Government - Sustainability Management Plans for projects over $4 million that go to the Public Works Committee - plans have guidelines for collation

Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) in developments is a start, but more can be done

Aldinga Arts Eco Village website

Solar tariffs

Energy efficient homes - Federal Government website

Some Local Government policies (not always followed)

Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA) green infrastructure webpage www.aila.org.au/greeninfrastructure/

Adelaide Hills Council sustainability and biodiversity framework (under development)

Green Roof Australia (may be under development)

City of Sydney Green Roof Resource Manual www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/109383/Green-roof-resource-manual-full-version.pdf

Water by Design guidelines – South East Queensland - very comprehensive WSUD guidelines

Victorian Planning Provisions and water quality requirements (see Melbourne Water website)

Facility for Advancing Water Biofiltration (FAWB) guidelines

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2.7. PROFILE OF RESPONDENTS

The final section of the survey asked respondents to identify the sector they work in, a description of their field of work and the nature of their work.

2.7.1. Field of work

Sixty nine per cent (69%) of respondents identified they work in the environment/conservation area (see Table 6).

The ‘other’ fields identified were:

• Infrastructure

• Aboriginal inclusion in the public space

• Recreation

• Publicity

• Retail

Table 6: Respondents by field of work*

Field of work No. respondents Percentage

Environment/conservation 44 68.8%

Water 10 15.6%

Energy 4 33.3%

Health 3 4.7%

Education 9 14.1%

Planning 15 23.4%

Development 8 12.5%

Design 22 34.4%

Finance 1 1.6%

Horticulture 3 33.3%

Other 5 7.8%

*Respondents were able to select multiple choices.

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2.7.2. Type of work

The type of work most strongly represented was on-ground delivery/operations (this included landscape design/architecture), followed by policy/strategy (see Figure 7).

Figure 7: Work type

2.7.3. Sector

The largest sector represented was State Government (32%), followed by private industry then Local Government (see Figure 8).

Figure 8: Sector of work

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3. APPENDICES

3.1. APPENDIX 1: UNDERSTANDING OF GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE

Survey responses

The facilities and spaces that connect living things and the natural environment.

Greening of urban environments to improve amenity, liveability, sustainability.

Capacity for a project or initiative to be able to demonstrate adequate consideration of all environmental factors

(social, economic, biological and physical environments) during the planning, construction and operation of the

project.

Green/living infrastructure that supports community, urban life and associated systems to function in unity with

each other.

An ecologically integrated structure/system of urban living that provides access to 'green spaces' that contribute to

ecological viability, human habitats and wellbeing, human and non-human.

Infrastructure associated with open space or in the public realm which provides improved amenity and softening of

urban environments.

Care for existing and establishment of new networks of green spaces and water ways that provide social,

environmental and economical benefits to communities. This can be parks and gardens, wetlands, water ways,

corridors, and interconnectedness with public open space and private open space.

All natural, cultivated and recreational areas.

Plants in the environment, whether urban or rural environment, whether natural or planted, public or private

spaces.

Green Infrastructure describes green spaces and water systems that by being accessible to all people can deliver

multiple benefits for the environment and beneficially influence economic and social values.

Design that incorporates elements of the natural/semi-natural world.

The design and utilisation of the built environment to minimise ecological damage and maximise quality of life.

Things that are ecologically sound that provide us with a healthy, productive and rewarding lifestyle.

Anything that provides green things in our communities, e.g. vertical gardens, street landscaping, parks, reserves,

linear parks, street trees, village squares with shade trees, urban farms, etc.

Relates to land use planning, taking into account environmental matters, including sustainability and wisest use of

resources.

Green Infrastructure relates to the provision of "green spaces" in various forms, such as parks and gardens, green

walls, transport corridors and other community spaces.

The use of vegetation in the urban environment to enhance the amenity, ecology and air quality (including air

temperature), and to provide attractive open space to encourage social interaction and wellbeing.

Nothing.

Using vegetation and natural systems to provide design solutions and climate change adaptation that are more

sustainable (ecologically and environmentally) than traditional engineering solutions.

The natural environment, biodiversity and ecosystem values being considered as an 'asset'.

Principles of ESD incorporated into infrastructure, including energy efficiency and renewable energy, low VOCs and

indoor air quality, social spaces, water recycling and WSUD etc.

Incorporation of the natural environment into residential and commercial zones.

Living places that are part of, not separate from, resilient natural ecosystems.

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Survey responses

Sustainable approach to designing of the outdoor space with an emphasis on the natural environment and the

preservation of resources.

Habitat and species resilience and survival - including humans.

Ecologically sustainable infrastructure that will have a minimised impact on the environment and will educate the

public about how it helps not only the environment but our own wellbeing.

Public and privately built infrastructure with good environmental credibility.

The creation of living, breathing, connected, sustainable and biodiverse habitats across our urban spaces for

enduring benefits to community, society and the greater environment as a whole.

Is planning a more liveable city with long term sustainable principles including clean water, increased planting in

cities and areas for recreation and interaction.

Parks, gardens (both private and public), street trees, green corridors, community gardens, open green spaces,

wetlands.

Utilising natural processes/systems to return/maintain functionality in anthropologically altered landscapes

(particularly urban). Improve air and water quality, mitigate climate change, as well as contributing to biodiversity

and recreational use benefits.

Full understanding.

Integration of natural areas and elements into land use planning, to achieve various outcomes.

Unfortunately I think it means whatever you want it to mean.

The plants and associated areas that provide aesthetic and ecosystem services in human settlements.

Putting in place living structures specifically through plants in built up places.

Now that I have read some of the questions, I imagine it to be areas where nature and the natural world takes

priority over the built environment.

Triple bottom line planning. Cradle to grave responsibilities. Renewable resources. Eco-system conservation and

enhancement. Urban planning beyond the quick buck and/or the current electoral cycle.

Providing a landscape which shades in warmer weather and warms in cooler weather, colour, perfume, spaces to

play or recreate, shelter, food potential.

Building infrastructure in an environmentally responsible manner, which is eco sensitive and sustainable in all

stages of the project from the design through to the construction and the maintenance of the project. All outcomes

should have only positive benefits to the environment, no negative impacts.

Built structure and urban design that is environmentally friendly and sustainable. Includes small environmental

footprint for materials used as well.

The preservation of natural systems and ecosystems and/or the creation of artificial systems that mimic nature.

From reading this survey, I draw the conclusion that green infrastructure is a fancy term for parks, open spaces,

gardens, wetlands, street trees, etc.

Building living plant-based elements into city-scapes.

To assist the greater community in the understanding of Urban Heat Island, and changes in the climate.

Applying infrastructure that is beneficial to environmental and human health.

Assets which relate to open space/public realm/environment which do not necessarily utilise "hard" traditional

engineering solutions.

Connected network of 'green' assets that provide landscape and environmental values to people and places.

Living things amongst the concrete.

I understand it is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of infrastructure, that it is a separate term from grey

infrastructure, and includes all organic forms of the built environment, the role of water, the social benefits and the

economic implications.

The incorporation of vegetation, particularly trees, in the urban environment.

It relates to the use of natural resources in the public realm. e.g. green space, landscape, WSUD.

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3.2. APPENDIX 2: PRIORITIES FOR GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE

Survey responses

Priority 1 Priority 2 Priority 3

Water capture and re-use Soft landscape and WSUD to

suppress heat island effect

Renewable energy generation

locally distributed under a

community funding arrangement

Attractive, practical and well

maintained landscaping for major

transport routes

Climate change adaptation Reduction of heat island effect

Educating professionals and the

public of the benefits

Quantitative and qualitative

assessment of the benefits

A framework for the

implementation of Green

Infrastructure initiatives

Creation of a minimum 'Green Star'

rating system for all infrastructure

projects

Ensuring planners fully comprehend

and adopt the above

Ensuring developers fully adopt -

and comply with - the above

Regulation and consultation in

relation to commercial and

residential development

Urban fauna and flora biodiversity

management including the removal

of some introduced species

Public transport

Ecological linkages across the state

and city

Properly protected through town

planning mechanisms

Properly managed for biodiversity

values

Developing a Green Infrastructure

Strategy for SA

Money/political support to improve

quality of parks/open spaces

City-wide street tree planting (large

trees)

WSUD Increased linear and connect Public

Open Space (POS)

Requirement for Green

Infrastructure to be provided

through development just as

"hard" infrastructure (e.g.

roads/sewer/water are currently

required)

Cycling and walking infrastructure Street trees Wetlands

Finalisation of policy mandating

WSUD (e.g. stormwater quality

targets)

Development of program to resource

delivery and capacity building

Education and engagement with

community (including residents,

developers etc.)

Industry awareness Legislation Cost benefits

Clear and strong political support to

influence developments

Incentives and disincentives that lead

to both new developments and

existing urban/semi-urban centres

incorporating Green Infrastructure

into design and to invest in its

maintenance

More case studies that

demonstrate the personal benefits

gained through Green

Infrastructure

Integrated water cycle management

and reconnection of the community

to the natural water cycle

Resilience to climate change

particularly variable rainfall and

increasing temperature

Human health and wellbeing

Designing streets for large trees that

maximise tree health

Allowing space in new housing blocks

for trees and gardens

Quality open spaces that include

natural areas that are informal

That it becomes standard production Efficient including costs People corridors that are also

biodiversity corridors

Clean water in our creeks and rivers Native animal habitat replacement Making green space in domestic

properties

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Survey responses

Priority 1 Priority 2 Priority 3

Citizen-initiated referenda

Water Food production (SA’s own food

security) and permaculture

Biodiversity of indigenous

vegetation

Replication of the social enterprise

model for regional native flora

centres throughout the State

Street trees Open green spaces that people

WANT to visit

Urban farming

Green walkways Urban biodiversity conservation Increasing air and water quality

(including stormwater runoff)

Natural playscapes Liveable city - for both people and

biodiversity

Community growing - food or

natives

Government funding Training Resources

Bush-land preservation water capture & local dispersal Public & alternative transport

options

Reasonable green space required per

dwelling

Preservation of existing parks and

national parks, including Adelaide

Parklands

Shady street trees throughout

suburbs

Improving green corridors Water recycling and retention Recreation

Education Education Education

Review of building regulations to

encourage green architecture with

low embodied materials

Improve and encourage more

biodiversity plantings

More funding/powers for

governments to undertake weed

control

Renewable energy – solar, wind and

others

Water retention and cleaning Revegetation and weed control on

farms

Stormwater use in parks/roadside

plantings

Street trees Biodiverse urban parks

Storm water harvesting River Torrens

rejuvenation/stormwater harvesting

Community gardens Biodiversity corridors Setting aside areas as or for green

spaces

Biodiversity corridors in the urban

area

More vegetation in the built city

especially along streets/roads

Stormwater quality improvements

(more natural, not intensively

'engineered' solutions)

Stormwater harvesting Street trees Demonstration projects/data

collection/cost benefit analysis

Street tree retention and

replacement

Biodiversity corridors Community gardens Increase use of indigenous plants in

public spaces

Change planning regulations to

ensure a great emphasis is placed on

green infrastructure

Encourage local and state

government via provision of

evidence that demonstrates the

financial, social and environmental

benefits (with main focus on

economic benefits)

Ability to influence the community

to get their support to then make it

common knowledge - this will also

lead to political support

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Survey responses

Priority 1 Priority 2 Priority 3

New "greenfields" urban

developments

Agricultural landscape including

roadsides

All urban areas and towns

Vertical gardens Community gardens Connected city - prioritising

pedestrian, cycling and public

transport

Wind power Solar power Water tanks on all homes - 50,000

litres at least

Stormwater harvesting and use Public transport and bike friendly

commuting

Energy efficient housing design and

construction

Enhancements of the Adelaide Park

Lands to make the less appealing

destinations more appealing - to

realise their potential

Small pocket parks in the denser

urban developments

Water harvesting

Green spaces accessible to all to

prevent nature deficit disorder

Sustainable green spaces with wide

use of native species

Green spaces as a community tool

connecting people and places

Natural vegetation and reserves Botanic gardens Home gardens

Expansion of open space network -

that is developed to be

interconnected

Incentivise private open space

including verges as a community

shared resources

Tackle fears associated with native

trees - they are not evil!

Climate change adaptation/resilience Increases activity and general health Connectivity between significant

open space areas

Biodiversity reservoir Moderating temperature, storing

water

Education

To support increased densities of

communities

To provide functioning and

purposeful space to the urban realm

To moderate the Urban Heat Island

(UHI) effect

Accountability Commitment Information to enhance

understanding. A shared definition

Biodiversity reserves and links Stormwater harvesting and

management

Encouragement of food

forests/backyard food production

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3.3. APPENDIX 3: IDEAL URBAN ENVIRONMENT

Survey responses

See the Bowden Master Plan.

Street trees (on main roads as well as suburban streets), parks and ovals, passive surveillance of open spaces, linear

trails, open space that is well maintained and considered a community asset.

A pedestrian and cycle orientated development with access to quality open space, opportunities for play and

interaction with the natural environment. Access to a broad range of small businesses that offer unique goods and

services. Local sports clubs to participate with and support. Connectivity with the broader urban and natural

environment.

A system that integrates amenity with biodiversity, an understanding of local conditions, and energy and resource

conservation to create a vibrant and genuinely sustainable community.

Takes more than 10 minutes.

Green space is pivotal and increasingly important with modelled temperatures continuing to increase for SA. Would

like to see incentives for developers to retain Public Open Space (POS) as native vegetation. Local government

needs educating on appropriate locally native street trees and not opting for weedy species. Better use of open

space with growing food - check out the food garden outside the WA museum.

Large street trees, parks, productive gardens, walking and cycling paths.

Connected green space. Good provision of community facilities. Buffers between potential conflicting land use.

Quality public realm with well considered urban design. Logical mix of residential density. More local centres

promoting shopping/socialising locally.

Lots of street trees (critical as we go higher density over time and heat becomes more intense) with walkable paths

and a mixture of parks with community gardens. Water features would be nice too depending on the location, but

overall simple street trees and connected walkways are key to a higher amenity (and cooler) environment - makes a

huge difference.

Water sensitive, climate sensitive designed for reduced car dependence, promoting active streets and

communities. Spaces designed for the environment and people.

Cool and green.

Invites people to be outside, safe, beautiful, clean, quiet, provides sense of community and vibrancy, encourages

cycling and walking over vehicular traffic and is a safe environment to do so.

Integrated water cycle management within a catchment, water is collected, used and treated locally as much as

possible. Green open spaces that connect people and places so that people are encouraged to minimise car use.

Food production part of the urban environment.

Low population density, so every family can have their own house and garden.

No front fences, tall tree canopies, a park within walking distance that has a mix of space, informal and formal

landscaping and nature play. A borrowed landscape or view of hills or ocean.

Tall street trees with good shade. Backyards that are moderate in size but not small/tiny. Should be enough at

least for a vegie garden and relaxing in. Lots of community parks. Local native plants used for the majority of

garden landscapes (including in formal and informal design) but not exclusively - other garden designs and plants

are also important. Corridors for walking, cycling, biodiversity. Water sensitive urban design. Great public

transport infrastructure. Community gardens with vegie swap and local produce available for purchase... and a

great bakery and coffee shop within walking distance!

Creeks and rivers that flow unimpeded from their source to the sea with clean unpolluted water. With corridors

and reserves of our original flora and fauna. With more community gardens and access to learning about gardening

for all people.

True Ecological Sustainable Development with real passive solar houses built for the long term - and a low energy

future. Neighbourhood orchards and community gardens. Local food sources for building real and true Community.

Parks and gardens with indigenous vegetation zones.

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Survey responses

I would like to live in a place which pays homage to and celebrates the local native flora and fauna which was

originally here pre European settlement. I wish to be able to celebrate and retain a "sense of place".

Plenty of open car free green space. Natural play structure, diverse environment, e.g. water, ponds etc.

Lots of 'green' of many textures, shapes and colours - all native and drought tolerant local species. Plant species

that enhance opportunities for wildlife as well as physical structures such as bird boxes, bat boxes, homes for native

bees. Lots of interconnected walkways to get around the space easily, surrounded by beautiful, safe, open spaces.

Alive, not too exposed to extremes, diverse and aesthetic, can see and hear aspects of nature in your daily living

and home.

Isolated country property surrounded by habitat.

Environmentally rather that industry driven construction. Native bushland sacrosanct, with maintenance and

additions planned. Reduction in use of cars, particularly commuters, with emphasis on public and alternative

transportation. Onsite capture and management of water. Onsite capture and management of solar. Integrated

multi-function open space incorporating recreational, sporting, amenity and biodiversity needs. High density hub

focused, urban living - Adelaide needs to "grow up" in this regard!!

Lowrise housing with minimum 30% green space per block. Lots of lawn and plants, shady street trees. Well

maintained public parks and gardens. Community gardens, green corridors with walking tracks.

Lots of local native plants and habitats, lots of shade and dedicated opportunities to walk and cycle.

Biodiverse, productive, peaceful, entertaining, social.

Biodiversity corridors. Weed and pest animal free environments. Only native (indigenous) street scape plantings.

Community gardens/fruit orchards. Garden reserves for children and animals. Recycling facilities. Infrastructure

that is "Green". Centres and offices only using energy efficient materials and promoting them to the public.

Each building to be primarily self-sufficient in energy and water - and growing some of their own food. Wall/roof

gardens and community gardens fed from their own collected water. Restoration and enhancement of farming

land. Co-ops must abound.

The ability to walk to a small safe leafy local park. That the walk route is shaded by street trees, with plantings

between the path and traffic, but allowing for crossing the road and getting in and out of parked cars.

Space, parks, lakes.

Plants and animals (e.g. birds). Natural places for people to walk and children to play. Walking and bike trails joining

communities. Limited access to cars but good public transport.

Lots of native trees, plants and animals in the suburb. Pedestrian and bike friendly streets which encourage social

interaction between neighbours. Communal spaces (parks etc.) with shade and facilities for informal

sport/picnics/playgrounds.

Green, opportunity to be active, quiet.

Green, healthy ecosystems with high educational and passive recreational opportunities.

Large mature street, shade trees that are well managed and replaced ongoing.

An urban environment which provides the community with spaces to grow food and spaces with indigenous plants

that provide habitat for local fauna.

An urban area that provides about 30% open green and blue space, with these spaces used to improve water

quality, cool the surrounding areas and provide a place to socialise. All streets with street trees, and a greater

emphasis on reinstating the natural environment into an urban area (utilising ecosystem services to improve life).

Community gardens and ability to produce local food would also be a benefit.

Energy efficient and sustainable dwelling in productive garden with wildlife and shade trees, close to park with play

space and interesting walking trails or streets.

Nearby park or green space, close walk to shops and public transport, more trams across Adelaide, i.e. up Norwood

Parade.

35

Survey responses

One which is self-sufficient in electricity, water retention, sewerage treatment, indigenous gardens, green

waste/composting, food, sustainable housing, lots of walkways and bike tracks, and like minded people.

An urban environment (one that facilitates social interaction) that incorporates large trees and pocket parks of

various sizes.

Safe urban streets with clean, wide walkable pavements. Access to at least a pocket park within 10 minutes walk

from all dwellings. Low rise housing with use of green roofs and walls for rainwater harvesting, temperature and

noise reduction. Wetlands for water recycling.

A greater proportion of garden to house on each residential block of land.

Tree lined streets, front and back yard habitat, parks featuring leafy trees, mid story and lush undergrowth. Drought

tolerant design and if I hear birds singing when I wake up in the morning and a lizard on my door step, I will know

that I have succeeded.

Trees, shrubs and groundcovers, water harvesting, reduced paved areas.

Green, open and active space/spaces.

Attractive parks, public and private green streetscapes, WSUD, integrated landscaping in all developments.

A 30% open space model with multi-functional spaces incorporating alternative and clean energy transport

including safe bike paths, conservation spaces, food production and community spaces.

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3.4. APPENDIX 4: BARRIERS TO GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE DELIVERY

Barriers to delivery of Green Infrastructure by sector (vertical axis represents the number of respondents).

Figure A4.1: Lack of information, knowledge or skill as a barrier by sector

Figure A4.2: Regulatory impediments as a barrier by sector

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Figure A4.3: Limited access to resources or finance as a barrier by sector

Figure A4.4: Design or construction difficulties as a barrier by sector

38

Figure A4.5: Lack of awareness or interest in community as a barrier by sector

Figure A4.6: Maintenance requirements or costs as a barrier by sector

39

Figure A4.7: Lack of political interest as a barrier by sector

Figure A4.8: Lack of incentives as a barrier by sector