Striving Towards a Sustainable Southern Grampians
Published on 13 December 2024
Southern Grampians Shire Council adopted the 2024-2041 Sustainability Strategy at last night’s ordinary Council meeting.
The Strategy will be a key driver for a more sustainable and resilient future, outlining ambitious actions towards reducing Council’s carbon footprint and adapting to the challenges of climate change.
Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Dennis Heslin said Council will aim to be a carbon neutral Organisation by 2035. Council will aim for the Southern Grampians Shire to be carbon neutral by 2041.
“Some of the goals we have set ourselves to achieve this are net-zero greenhouse gas emissions, establishing environmental sustainable designs and zero waste to landfill,” said Cr Heslin.
“A critical feature of the 2024-2041 Sustainability Strategy is its commitment to ongoing review and adaptation.
“Every four years, the Strategy will be assessed to measure progress, identify areas for improvement, and ensure it continues to meet the changing needs of the Shire and residents. This approach will allow Council to remain responsive to emerging challenges and opportunities related to climate change and sustainability.
‘Additionally, a five-year action plan will be developed to provide measures, timeline, budget, detailed actions and monitoring to achieve targets. This action plan will be periodically updated and provided to Council and the community.
“The success of this Strategy will depend on the collective efforts of our Council, community, businesses, and government agencies. Achieving carbon neutrality and reducing emissions will require collaboration and active engagement at all levels.
“Together, we can create a more sustainable and resilient Shire, enhancing the quality of life for current and future generations,” concluded Councillor Heslin.
The draft Sustainability Strategy 2024-2041 was released for 30 days for public exhibition in August – September 2024, inviting community members to provide feedback with community submissions considered and incorporated in the finalised strategy. The draft strategy was developed in direct response to community feedback collected in phase one of the consultation where 245 comments were submitted across six focus areas – Net Zero, Infrastructure, Waste, Water, Land Use and Biodiversity.
The Sustainability Strategy 2024-2041 will supersede the Sustainability Strategy 2010 – 2020, and Climate Adaptation Plan 2017 – 2027.
For more information on the 2024-2041 Sustainability Strategy or to view the full document, visit Southern Grampians Shire Council website at www.sthgrampians.vic.gov.au.