Strategy being prepared to address climate change

Published: 14 July 2021. (Note: information was correct at date of publication but may have since been changed or superseded.)

A preliminary draft outlining Council’s actions in response to climate change will be presented at a Climate Summit in September for feedback.

The Cairns Climate Change Strategy 2030 will identify ways for Council to further reduce emissions, support the community in climate mitigation and adaptation, and recognise opportunities for Cairns and Far North Queensland region as the Capital of the Smart Green Economy for Australia.

The Strategy builds on previous work undertaken by Council, including planning for natural hazards, investment in renewable energy and an organisational emissions reduction target of 50 per cent on 2007/2008 levels by the end of 2021.

There has been comprehensive stakeholder engagement, with consultation with over 130 community and industry leaders and more than 570 responses to an online survey.

The finalised Strategy will also incorporate the aspirations of student delegates who attended the inaugural Youth Climate Summit in 2019.