In March 2020, Council declared a Climate Emergency and set a 2030 Zero Emissions Target, after local residents, and in particular youth, called for Council to demonstrate leadership to address greenhouse gas emissions. In December 2021, Council adopted a 2030 Zero Emissions Plan.
While climate change presents challenges, the Draft Action Plan has highlighted many opportunities including:
- New jobs and industry that will be able to take advantage of our position in central Victoria, a growing manufacturing base and close to export ports.
- Cheaper energy options that can be generated in our region taking advantage of our proximity to existing and expanding electricity infrastructure.
- An established, smart agricultural sector that can take advantage of global demand for low carbon produce and value add to farm income stream through carbon farming.
- A vibrant and diverse education sector that can provide training and education for jobs of the future.
- Designing beautiful, green townships that provide shade in the heat and incorporate safe cycling and walking with zero carbon vehicles that are quiet and clean.
The current consultation period encourages the Greater Shepparton community to provide their input into the Climate Emergency Action Plan, consisting of four strategic priorities with 76 identified actions that Council can undertake to support the community. The draft Action Plan has been developed with input from local businesses, agricultural growers and community members and groups. The community will also play a vital role in successfully achieving the outlined actions in the plan, and feedback received will ensure the actions are achievable, relevant and effective.
A short and long survey can be completed on the Shaping Greater Shepp website. Feedback received from the surveys will be used to complete the plan prior to submission for final adoption.
If you require assistance to complete your submission, please contact Council at council@shepparton.vic.gov.au or via (03) 5832 9700. For more information on the Draft Climate Emergency Action Plan please contact Council’s Sustainability and Environment Team.
