City of Whittlesea has adopted a distinct plan to tackle climate change and environmental sustainability following a new long-term strategy and plan at a council meeting earlier this month.
The Sustainable Environment Strategy 2022-2032, Climate Change Plan 2022-2032 and Sustainable Environment Action Plan 2022-2024were formed after extensive consultation with residents, businesses, school children and industry leaders to create a sustainable and climate resilient future for all.
Chair administrator Lydia Wilson said the new plan would direct council’s priorities over the next 10 years to contain a liveable environment for generations to come.
“Creating a sustainable environment is one of council’s key goals and we are committed to tackling the environmental and climate change issues we face, while also supporting the community and local businesses to take action,” she said.
“We will build on the substantial work council has already undertaken in this area and will continue to progress our transition to becoming a net zero emissions city by 2036.”
Ms Wilson said more than 800 people shared input to shape the priorities and action items.
“It’s so pleasing to see our community get involved in the process that will help us tackle environmental sustainability in a practical and meaningful way and I’d like to thank everyone who provided feedback,” she said.
“We’ve heard some great suggestions and have added new initiatives based on your ideas, including a proposal to consider the suitability of composting toilets in public spaces.”
Council has also pledged to join the Cities Power Partnership program and the State Government’s council emission reduction pledges program to strengthen its commitment to climate action.
The Cities Power Partnership is a free national program, by the Climate Council, which aims to provide local governments with tools, knowledge, and connections, while the State Government’s climate change initiatives commit towards state-wide climate action efforts.
“We’re very excited to be joining these two programs and to work with other councils, partner organisations and the community to realise our shared vision and goals of a climate ready and resilient city,” Ms Wilson said.
To view the Sustainable Environment Strategy 2022-2032 and Sustainable Environment Action Plan 2022-2024 visit www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/environmentstrategy.
To view the Climate Change Plan 2022-2032 visit www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/climatechange.
