In the context of this document the following definitions shall apply:

Biodiversity

Biodiversity describes the whole variety of life in a particular area. It includes all species of plants and animals their genetic variation and the ecosystems of which they are a part.

Design life

The intended lifespan of an implemented design.

Ecological potential

The habitats, plant and animal communities that could develop on a given piece of ground dependant on the substrate and degree and type of management.

Habitat

A place where a particular plant, animal or community of plants and animals live.

Landscape architecture

The profession which applies artistic and scientific principles to the research, planning, design and management of the natural and built environment.

Landscape character

A distinct pattern or combination of elements that occurs consistently in parts of the landscape.

(Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, The Landscape Institute & Institute of Environmental Assessment, 1995)

Landscape Designer

The landscape architect, manager, ecologist, horticulturist, engineer or any one charged with working on a trunk road landscape project of any scale or complexity, at any stage.

Landscape Establishment

Providing care and attention to the landscape in its early life so that it is best able to thrive in the future.

Landscape Maintenance

Maintaining the landscape to conform to the original objective of the landscape design.

Landscape Management

Managing the landscape so that it can thrive, evolve and adapt to changes in the environment.

Landscape potential

The optimum positive contribution to landscape character that a particular area of land can provide.

Natural Characteristics

The natural processes, materials and features that occur in the environment.

Nature

The evolution of life and its environment.

Sustainability