Council supports action on emissions

The Climate Change Authority’s renewed advice for Australia to meet its target under the Paris Agreement has received support from Cairns Regional Council.

Council has endorsed a submission to the Local Government Association Queensland on the Climate Change Authority’s updated advice for meeting the Paris Agreement.

Cairns Mayor Bob Manning said the region was exposed to significant and varied climate risks, which could impact the world heritage environment and therefore key industries, including tourism and agriculture.

“We live in a sensitive environment and are acutely aware of our responsibilities in preserving and maintaining our region’s natural wonders and mitigating potential risks,” Cr Manning said.

“Action on reducing emissions and thereby mitigating potential risks is crucial.

“Council is on track to meet its own emission reduction targets, but national and international action is also needed to address this global issue.”

Council has already committed to emissions reductions across its operations, and is on track to meet its 50% emissions reduction target (on 2007/08 levels) by 2020.

Those emission targets are being met through a number of programs, including roof top solar (3,908 panels on 26 Council buildings already installed), with further solar installations planned for Gordonvale, Smithfield and Woree swimming pool complexes this financial year.

Council will also create mini-solar farms at five of its Wastewater Treatment Plants and when complete, the $3.35 million system will be capable of generating 1.7mW of energy.

Other initiatives to lower Council’s carbon footprint have included the acquiring Australian Carbon Credit Units for its flaring of methane at the closed Portsmith Landfill.