The word ‘environment’ can be understood to have two references; the physical environment and the concept of sustainability.  Aylesbury Vale Advantage’s (AVA) is working with its partners to secure both for the future in order that residents in Aylesbury Vale continue to enjoy a high quality of life during times of challenge; climate change, increased demand on environmental resources and uncertainty in national energy security.

Aylesbury Vale District Council (AVDC) and Buckinghamshire County Council have undertaken extensive research into understanding the quality of the environment and what steps need to taken to secure the physical environment for the future.  Other issues such as recreation, leisure pursuits, the value of local wildlife and the enhancement of biodiversity are also embraced within these studies.

With AVA’s financial support AVDC had developed a (draft) Green Infrastructure Strategy; a strategy which will now be reviewed in order to ensure its conformity with the developing Vale of Aylesbury Plan.

Sustainability includes the economic aspect of lifestyle e.g.  inward investment in the physical environment as well as the creation of local employment opportunities as well as the social needs of comunities for education, travel and access and leisure opportunities.  In this regard AVA’s activities align with AVDC’s Sustainable Communities Strategy.  AVA’s focus during 2011 – 12 is on public transport, electricity and employment.