The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has established two new advisory groups dedicated to shaping climate action in the mining and agriculture sectors.
The Climate Change Advisory Groups are part of the EPA’s Climate Change Policy and Action Plan: 2023-26 launched earlier this year, outlining a comprehensive roadmap to guide NSW towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
EPA Executive Director of Strategy and Policy Nancy Chang said the groups, who held their introductory meetings this week, will advise how both industries can work with the EPA to better protect the environment and build resilience.
“We are strengthening our regulatory response to address the causes and consequences of climate change, and these groups will play a pivotal role in leading the way,” Ms Chang said.
“While the sectors are already making strides towards a greener and cleaner future, our collective knowledge can help one another bridge gaps, adapt to risks, generate fresh ideas, foster innovation, share research, and create clear policy.
“These groups will provide valuable information and insight on good practices on the ground, as well as challenges that need to be addressed or considered during the design, implementation, and progress of our action plan.
“They will also identify opportunities and inform the development of subsequent targets to contribute to the broader goal of reaching a carbon-neutral state by 2050.”
Mining and agriculture organisations have nominated representatives with appropriate skills, expertise, and knowledge relevant to their field to participate in the groups for two years.
Each advisory group has up to 11 members who are scientists, independent experts, and industry and community stakeholders to encourage diverse perspectives. We are also seeking Aboriginal knowledge holders with an understanding of the areas in NSW where these sectors are prominent.
Ms Chang emphasised the shared priority of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
“We all have a responsibility to ensure an environmentally healthy future for our state, and the EPA is committed to facilitating ongoing conversations and supporting industry, business, regulatory partners, and the community in transitioning to a more sustainable and prosperous NSW,” Ms Chang said.
“This marks just the beginning, and we will continue to convene meetings to discuss our delivery, reflect on effective strategies, and explore new ways to combat climate change.”
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