Climate, nature and economic growth forum

Published on Wednesday, 31 July 2024 at 3:11:00 PM

Community and industry stakeholders are encouraged to participate in an interactive public forum discussing challenges and opportunities for climate and nature in our local economy and community.

The Great Southern Climate, Nature and Economic Growth Forum will be held at Albany Town Hall from 6pm on Wednesday, 28 August 2024, hosted by South Coast NRM CEO Luke Bayley.

With a specific focus on the natural capital underpinning agribusiness and mining, the forum will explore opportunities for industry and community adaptation and growth.

The forum will cover topics such as climate change mitigation and adaptation, water availability and use, biodiversity protection and restoration, regional job creation, and the diversification of the regional economy to service the renewable energy transition.

Mayor Greg Stocks highlighted the forum's significance for the region.

“This forum is an invaluable opportunity for our community to engage with leading experts and explore the potential future of the Great Southern,” he said.

“We are excited to facilitate discussions that could shape the direction of our regional economy and natural environment for generations to come.

“This collaborative effort underscores our commitment to sustainability and resilience, ensuring that our region remains vibrant and adaptable in the face of global challenges.

“The Albany and wider lower Great Southern communities have an incredible collective brains trust to tackle these issues – let’s get the community conversations going.”

A panel of experts will lead the conversation including UWA Oceans Institute Deputy Director Nicola Mitchell, Principal Research Scientist Irrigated Agriculture Department of Primary Industry and Regional Development Richard George, WA Biodiversity Science Institute Board Director Gavin Price, Commbank Executive Manager Agribusiness Sustainability Carmel Onions and Savior Consulting: ESG, Sustainability, Food & Agribusiness Larissa Taylor.

The event is proudly supported by the City of Albany, Great Southern Development Commission, South Coast NRM, and University of Western Australia Albany Campus.

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