This paper discusses research from an ARC funded project that is investigating ways to minimise waste from building conception to end of life.

The purpose of this study was to use a partnership approach between three Regional Development Australia entities and CQUniversity to better identify, understand and plan appropriate responses to issues relating to resource sector development in regional Queensland.

This paper focuses on five concerns touching cities that are rarely on planners’ screens, or given too little attention - notably fine particulate pollution, heat island effects and noise in local area settings, water quality deterioration from run-off, and the degradation of green space in urban environs.