Glenorchy City Council is making significant progress in its commitment to tackling climate change, cutting emissions through solar power, waste reduction and cleaner transport, delivering real benefits for the environment.
Mayor Sue Hickey said the progress shows what is possible when Council and the community work together.
“Climate change is a global issue, but we are proving that local action can make a real impact,” Mayor Hickey said.
She said community involvement was central to shaping Council’s Climate Change Mitigation Action Plan (CCMAP), adopted in May last year.
“The feedback we received when developing the CCMAP showed that Glenorchy residents care deeply about the environment and want to see practical action,” Mayor Hickey said.
“We’ve installed nearly 100 kilowatts of rooftop solar across our Council buildings, which will deliver around $20,000 in annual energy savings.
“Last financial year, we diverted more than 4,500 tonnes of organic material from landfill through our Food Organics, Garden Organics (FOGO) service, reducing our biggest source of greenhouse gas emissions.
“At the same time, new gas extraction wells at Jackson Street Landfill are capturing methane equivalent to 50,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide and converting it into electricity for the grid.”
Mayor Hickey said Council’s progress extended well beyond waste and energy.
“We’ve transitioned 20 per cent of our light vehicle fleet to hybrid or fully electric vehicles, installed charging stations at our Chambers and provided e-bikes for staff to use as a sustainable transport option,” she said.
“Through strong community support, we’ve also delivered 16 planting events over the past year, planting nearly 2,000 native plants, while more than 7,700 plants and wetland ponds have been established at the former Tolosa Reservoir.
“These projects don’t just capture carbon, they also make Glenorchy greener, healthier and more beautiful.”
Mayor Hickey said Council’s investment would continue, including the employment of a dedicated climate and sustainability officer who will assist both Council and the community with meeting its sustainability goals.
“This work is not only good for the environment, but it also makes financial sense too,” Mayor Hickey said.
“By investing in renewable energy, waste reduction and low-emission transport, we’re saving money on energy and fuel while protecting our city for the future.”