Draft Climate Change Policy to go on public exhibition

Draft Climate Change Policy to go on public exhibition

In an effort to address the changing climate affecting the Cessnock Local Government Area, Council has developed a draft Climate Change Policy. The community are encouraged to provide feedback on the Policy during the public exhibition period. The draft Climate Change Policy will be on public exhibition from the 26 February until the 25 March 2020. 

The development of the Policy is in response to the Australian Government and NSW Government making formal commitments to reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions.

The NSW Government has set NSW the target of achieving zero net emissions by 2050. The Hunter Climate Change Snapshot prepared by the NSW Government shows, amongst other impacts, that average fire weather is projected to increase in summer, spring and winter, with severe fire weather projected to increase in summer and spring. 

This draft Climate Change Policy proposes that Council adopt the target of achieving zero net emissions by 2050, which is consistent with the NSW Government’s target. 

At a local level, this draft Policy will provide a framework for Council to investigate the appropriate actions for addressing climate change as an organisation, while also encouraging the region as a whole to act. Some key objectives include:

Enabling Council to align its operational and strategic planning with NSW policy. Providing a whole of Council commitment to managing climate change risks within the local government area. Supporting community initiatives to deal with climate change. Ensuring environmental risks are managed. Providing direction on climate change for Council and the community. 

Cessnock City Mayor, Councillor Bob Pynsent said this policy is a positive step in the right direction and we should all work together as a community. 

“We must recognise the importance of shared responsibility in addressing this issue and building community resilience. Individuals, businesses and all levels of government play a role in reducing the damaging impacts of climate change. 

“I encourage local residents to view the draft Policy, provide feedback and be part of the process,” added Cr Pynsent. 

Following the adoption of the Policy Council will work with the community to develop a Climate Change Strategy by June 2021. This will address climate change mitigation and adaptation, and will identify actions that Council can undertake to build climate resilience within our community. The adoption of the draft Policy and subsequent Climate Change Strategy will pave the way for long term financial benefits for Council in terms of income generation and cost savings. They will also allow Council to apply for grants related to climate change that can be used to upgrade infrastructure within our community. 

The draft Climate Change Policy can be viewed on Council’s website at www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au or by visiting Cessnock City Libraries and Council’s Customer Service Centre.  

 2/25/2020