Joint effort with regional funding boost to address net zero

THE Northern Rivers Joint Organisation will hire a dedicated officer to drive net zero initiatives after securing more than $250,000 in state funding.

The funding comes from the state government’s Net Zero Acceleration grant program and will support the role across its member councils for the next 18 months.

The organisation represents the Ballina, Byron, Clarence, Kyogle, Lismore, Richmond Valley and Tweed Shire councils.

It is the third time the group has secured funding, with a focus on reducing emissions from high-impact sectors such as energy, transport and construction.

Chair of the NRJO and Tweed Shire mayor Chris Cherry said the Northern Rivers is feeling the effects of climate change through more frequent storms, floods and drought.

“That is why NRJO is prioritising a regional approach to reducing emissions in the Northern Rivers, while continuing to improve efficiencies and cost savings,” she said.

“It is great to see the investment over a longer period by the state government as we transition.

“By working together in partnership through the NRJO, we can achieve more for our communities and deliver stronger environmental and economic outcomes.”

The previous round of funding examined potential electricity savings and helped councils implement energy efficiency and cost-reduction initiatives.

Six councils also participated in a trial of a Foton 6-tonne electric tipper truck.

“The councils have also been supported with emissions baseline calculations and new tools to guide future emissions reduction programs,” organisation executive officer Phillip Russ said.

“We are grateful to have the opportunity to continue working closely with the Net Zero Manager over the next 18 months on important environmental and economic objectives for our region.”

The initiative is delivered by the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.

It supports regional councils in reducing emissions and contributing to state targets, including a 50 per cent reduction by 2030, 70 per cent by 2035, and net zero by 2050.