Bond University is partnering with the Gold Coast City Council (GCCC) to better facilitate the management of sustainable coastal living and urbanisation.
The GCCC has committed its support to the appointment of a Professor of Sustainable Development and Design, providing critical funding and industry links to forge the Gold Coast's reputation as world-leading educators and researchers in sustainable development.
The appointee will provide academic and research leadership within the Institute of Sustainable Development and Architecture while also participating in community affairs and forging strong relationships with industry, government and key stakeholders.
Bond University's Vice-Chancellor Professor Robert Stable said the support from the GCCC was significant in terms of information sharing, regional growth and research breadth.
"I am delighted that the Council has chosen to support local researchers and educators and students," he said.
"This partnership will open the doors for many years to come for a great number of Gold Coast residents and business owners, students, and council members. It will provide access to the latest, innovative research and state-of-the-art facilities, and world-leading academics, and will enable us to strive for the same goal of making our city sustainable.
"The Institute of Sustainable Development and Architecture already attracts a world-wide audience from the likes of AA, PRATT and the World Bank - all interested to see how the professors behind Australia's first six-star Green star rated designed building are looking at other global issues such as coastal management, urbanisation, infrastructure management and sustainability science.
"We aim to be the leaders in sustainable education. It is encouraging that we have the support and commitment of our local government and community to help us achieve that," he said.
Gold Coast Mayor Ron Clarke said the partnership would enhance the city’s reputation for leading-edge knowledge and research into sustainable development.
“The city already has a range of initiatives to make us more resilient in the face of climate change,” said Councillor Clarke.
Councillor Clarke said the benefits of the partnership will be two-fold.
“This partnership, along with one already in place with Griffith University, will provide a quality experience for students and long-term benefits for the city.
“It will add significantly to the body of knowledge and expertise which will help ‘future-proof’ our city, through a more sustainable economy and environment.
Furthermore, Councillor Clarke said the partnership will play an important part in the Council’s overall climate change strategy.
“Our Climate Change strategy addresses both mitigation and adaptation, we are working to green the city, improve flood protection and emergency response and diversify our economy.
“That will have direct benefits for our whole community,” he said.