Whittlesea council is aiming to be a zero net emissions organisation by 2022.
The council’s goal is to become a leader in clean and sustainable living and it has launched a zero net Emissions plan.
Council major projects manager Nick Mazzarella said the plan sets a clear, strong, achievable pathway in climate change action.
“We know how important it is to address climate change, which is not just a distant problem, but one that science tells us we can expect to bring serious impacts at a local level in the coming years,” Mr Mazzarella said.
“In fact, most experts believe we are dealing with the adverse effects already, as we saw with last summer’s severe bushfires.”
Council has already upgraded 12,500 street lights with LED and compact fluorescent lamps (CFL), installed solar power systems across more than 60 council buildings and purchased fuel-efficient and electric vehicles for council’s fleet.
These measures have helped council reduce its annual emissions by 19.7 per cent since 2011, while reducing council’s annual energy and operation costs by $1.175 million.
“A further 20 per cent of our emissions are offset each year,” said Mr Mazzarella.
To read the zero net emissions plan or find ideas how to reduce your impact on climate change visit: whittlesea.vic.gov.au/waste-environment/zero-net-emissions/
Tara Murray
