About Beyond Zero Net Emissions
This theme will focus on priorities and actions that will reduce Council’s corporate emissions to net zero and beyond. We can make changes to the way we work and support others to do the same. Council plays a partnering role in working toward the reduction of community emissions by continuing to support the objectives of Hepburn Z-NET and Hepburn Wind through an official MOU, the provision of Towards Zero Community Grants Program and contributing to the implementation of the Grampians Region Climate Adaptation Strategy.
The specific focus of this theme is to create an action plan that will work towards achieving and maintaining a beyond zero net emissions from Council operational activities across the following areas:
- Renewable energy, often referred to as clean energy, comes from natural sources or processes that are constantly replenished. For example, sunlight or wind keep shining and blowing, even if their availability depends on time and weather. We aim to transition council operations away from fossil fuel energy by installing and purchasing renewable energy (i.e. photovoltaic/solar energy, wind energy).
- Energy efficiency means using less energy to get the same job done. Energy efficiency is one of the easiest ways to eliminate energy waste and lower energy costs. It is also one of the most cost-effective ways to combat climate change. We aim to drive improved energy efficiency across Council’s assets and facilities by using smart technologies and improved information to guide behaviour.
- Design for climate means that a building is designed or modified to suit the climate it is built in, keep building users thermally comfortable (that is, they do not feel too hot or too cold), and use minimal heating or cooling.
- Passive building design reduces the energy consumption of buildings. This means buildings are less reliant on fossil fuels to stay warm in winter and stay cool in summer.
- Offsetting emissions that are hard to reduce without compromising services, can be neutralised by offsetting, usually by planting trees or buying carbon credits.
- Low fossil fuel-based activities may include community transport or cycling for example. We would like to explore what activities would enable Hepburn Shire residents and businesses reduce their carbon footprint.
What projects (related to this theme) would you like to see introduced, repeated or expanded across the Shire? Feel free to direct us to good ideas from other councils and communities.
CLOSED. The visioning activity has now concluded.
