Supporting a Greener Future – Wollongong

We’re calling for community feedback on our plans for a target of net zero emissions by 2050.

The target means Council would work with the whole community to reduce emissions as much as possible and offset those outstanding emissions to achieve net zero emissions. Two ways carbon offsets can be achieved are by planting trees or investing in solar power.

We’re also asking for ideas on how community, business and industry can work together to reduce our carbon footprint and our greenhouse gas emissions.

The call out for suggestions is part of community engagement on our proposal to commit to a target of zero net carbon emissions by 2050.

“We know our local community values and protects our environment – you only have to think of the turn out to the local climate change rallies to appreciate the passion,” Wollongong Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said.

“In August, we joined more than 1,000 Governments in 19 countries to declare a State of Climate Emergency and make it clear we’re making addressing climate change a priority.

“In addition to this declaration, Council is a signatory to the Global Covenant of Mayor for Climate and Energy and our proposal to commit to a target of zero net carbon emissions is part of our actions within this Covenant.”

The Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy has a number of milestones to support and promote actions to reduce the impacts of climate change. These include completing an emissions inventory and a climate change hazards assessment.

“By being one of more than 9,200 Australian and international cities to sign up to this Covenant, Council is taking a leadership role on behalf of our city and saying we’re looking to make and support changes to improve our environment,” Cr Bradbery said.

“As an organisation, we’re already taking steps whether it’s through our Urban Greening Strategy or the Food Organics Garden Organics waste trial. If you’ve suggestions on how the community and Council can collaborate on initiatives, we want to hear them.”

Feedback can be provided through the Have Your Say page.

/Public Release. View in full here.