Living sustainably in the desert requires that we live in ways that seek to conserve the resources of Central Australia and share the goal of creating a healthy future.
With smart planning, practical solutions and strong partnerships, the Arid Lands Environment Centre is driving sustainable desert living and active community engagement. This is part of our long-term commitment to building community resilience. We do this through developing local food systems, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and empowering desert communities through knowledge and resources.
What we do
Community gardens and sustainable food
Creating local, sustainable food systems in Alice Springs and surrounding desert communities is an opportunity. Through community gardens and Food for Alice, a weekly produce market and food-focused social enterprise, we're working to grow the demand for local produce. Find out how you can get involved in local garden and food initiatives.
desertSMART EcoFair
The EcoFair is Central Australia’s peak desert science and sustainability festival and aims to educate, inspire and motivate people as part of National Science Week. Each year, more than 2000 people attend the three day event, enjoying high profile speakers, engaging panels and workshops, film festivals and eco-markets.
Roadmap to a desertSMART town
Central Australians are intimately connected to their environment. Discover a range of practical resources to be more energy efficient, reduce waste, grow food locally and conserve water. The Roadmap to a desertSMART Town is a blueprint for increasing the resilience and sustainability of Alice Springs.
Arid Edge Environmental Services
An ALEC social enterprise providing research, training, project management, design and consulting services in the areas of water, waste, food, and energy.