Land
Like water and air, land is an essential resource.
Land:
- is fundamental in sustaining ecological processes;
- supports native ecosystems and maintains biodiversity;
- supports food, fibre and mineral production, contributing to Queensland's economic wealth;
- provides living space;
- supports recreational activities;
- preserves geological, historical and evolutionary information and materials; and
- has spiritual, inspirational, scientific, cultural and educational value.
The main pressures affecting Queensland's land and soils are vegetation clearing, unsustainable agricultural practices, urban development and introduced species. Underlying these are pressures from population growth, economic trends and climatic conditions.
The important aspects of successful application of the principles of ecologically sustainable development to land resources include:
- active participation by all sectors of society, including the community, industry, landholders, miners, foresters, developers and governments;
- a holistic view of land, water, native vegetation and biodiversity issues in decision making;
- the need for a regional approach; and
- incentives to individuals and groups to adopt ecologically sustainable practices.
Last updated: 16 February 2007
