Kiama Council has set a target of becoming carbon neutral by 2031, following its adoption of a Corporate Emissions Reduction Plan (Corp ERP).
The plan outlines reasons for reducing emissions, an effective carbon accounting approach and methods to achieving emissions reductions.
The Corp ERP (2021-2031) also highlights the councils aim of having more than half of council’s electricity coming from renewable sources by 2025.
Mayor Mark Honey said the deadline for achieving ‘net zero’ reflects the area’s commitment to sustainable practices.
“I know I speak for all my fellow councillors in saying this is an exciting, important and big step forward for our organisation, our residents and ratepayers, in realising a sustainable future for our community,” Honey said.
This builds on previous projects undertaken by the council to reduce their carbon footprint. Initiatives such as the installation of LED lighting in council facilities, as well as waste education programs.
Kiama Council said the installations helped to avoid 209.55 tonnes of carbon emissions and generated 256.56 megawatts of solar power in 2019/20.
Director Environmental Services Jessica Rippon said the plan would provide a comprehensive action plan for increasing sustainable practices in the area.
“This Plan was developed using the Greenhouse Gas Protocol and Climate Active Reporting Guidelines, so our community can be assured of the standards and requirements we have set ourselves,” Rippon said.
“Achieving net zero emissions is technically and financially possible. The Corp ERP provides a strategic and sustainable approach to meet this goal.”
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