On June 29, 2021 Council approved an updated, new Environmental Framework. It has been 10 years since approval of the Environmental Sustainability Framework (2009). Throughout 2020, we have reflected upon, reframed and renewed our environmental priorities.  

Environmental Framework (4.6 MB)

2023 Year-in-Review (5.2 MB)

2022 Year-in-Review (920.3 KB)

2021 Year-in-Review (4.6 MB)

Environmental Framework Story Map

The framework sets municipal priorities and provides a guide to assess environmental factors and impacts in planning and decision making.

An ecosystem model means...

Ecosystems are the complex of living organisms, their physical environment, and all their interrelationships in a unit of space. An ecosystem model is built on the interconnectedness between abiotic (minerals, climate, soil, water, light, and air) and biotic (living) parts. The abiotic and biotic parts are linked through energy flows and nutrient cycling.  

The Environmental Framework follows the ecosystem model, focusing abiotic (air, water, land) and biotic (biodiversity) outcomes with energy and waste outcomes.  

The network of relationships, including County departments, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and our citizens, will be defined as and built across all boundaries as per the ecosystem model.

Priorities

Informed by public and stakeholder engagement, significant research and a review of relevant trends and policies, the framework is based on the ecosystem model, and is a reflection of the current state of our environment. 

• Global growth: addressing a need to shift to development focused on human well-being and our interaction with the natural environment 

• Global biodiversity crisis: addressing habitat loss, invasive species, pollution, human population and over-harvesting 

• Climate change: addressing changes in average conditions and changes in variability, including extreme conditions 

Reframing our focus

The Environmental Framework will support a coordinated approach between administrative departments and external stakeholders in Strathcona County by enabling them to work together, leveraging people and financial resources, and responding to community needs. 

Each topic area has a clear outcome and specific objectives identified that prioritize healthy ecosystems and set a foundation for healthy citizens:

Renewing our future

The Environmental Framework’s outcomes and objectives create a common reference for collaboration and alignment between stakeholders to work together towards a future where healthy ecosystems support a healthy community. Innovative and supportive programs, plans, policies and strategic initiatives will be embedded in the administrative and operational decision-making of Strathcona County.

Supporting Strathcona County's Strategic Plan

2023 – 2026 Strategic Plan: “Environmental stewardship that addresses climate change and demonstrates responsible use of land and natural resources."