Colac Otway Shire Council adopted two significant environmental documents at its October meeting that will provide a roadmap for enhancing the environment and adapting to a changing climate over the next 10 years.
The Environmental Sustainability Strategy (ESS) 2023-2033 and Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP) 2023-2033 were developed in conjunction with the community, businesses, stakeholders and agencies from across the Shire.
Mayor Chris Potter described the documents as vital in guiding protection and enhancement activities that will benefit the local environment over the next decade.
“We are lucky to live where we live. We are all passionate about preserving the local environment. We can all play a part in mitigating the impacts of a changing climate,” Cr Potter said.
“Our communities have a strong interest in addressing climate change and protecting the environment – this was a clear message incorporated into our Council Plan and Vision.
“I thank everyone who contributed to the development of the priorities in these documents, and thank the Council officers who have done an extraordinary amount of work to get us to this point,” he said.
“Through broad consultation, passionate individuals and groups have helped craft this response to significant environmental challenges. There are some ambitious projects identified and some simple things we can all support to help make a difference,” Cr Potter said.
“Council received a high level of feedback through the public exhibition process, and this feedback has contributed to a number of refinements in the final documents”, he said.
The Environmental Sustainability Strategy is designed to ensure that Council protects and enhances its environment, takes appropriate action to mitigate and adapt to a changing climate and helps to create resilient and sustainable communities.
The Climate Change Action Plan outlines proposed actions designed to mitigate the impacts of, and respond to, climate change, with an emphasis of preventing and minimising climate change impacts. The CCAP includes a range of measures aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, including energy efficiency and renewable energy, waste reduction and recycling, and sustainable transport.
The CCAP also includes initiatives aimed at building resilience to climate change impacts, such as emergency management planning, land use planning reforms, urban greening, and biodiversity conservation programs. Further, it outlines actions to support engagement and education aimed at raising awareness about climate change, promoting sustainable living, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and encouraging community action.
“The final documents will guide our environmental initiatives and Council operations to ensure we enhance and protect our environment in an ongoing partnership with our communities,” Cr Potter said.
The ESS and CCAP documents can be viewed on Council’s website: www.colacotway.vic.gov.au
