Borough cuts carbon by 80 per cent

THE Borough of Queenscliffe has achieved a 80 per cent emission reduction in the last financial year.

The drastic reduction comes just over a year after council adopted its Climate Emergency Response Plan in May 2021 that contained 49 actions designed to cut council emissions, ahead of net zero by 2031 target.

A switch to purchasing 100 per cent renewable electricity for all its operations is cited by council as having been the largest driver for change, all borough operations including buildings, tourist parks, street lights and public facilities are now powered by green energy.

Mayor Ross Ebbels said he was “thrilled” to announce such a substantial one-year drop.

“While we still have more work to do, this result demonstrates our commitment to being a climate leader.”

In practical terms, council has reduced its scope 1 and 2 emissions from 1,038 tonnes in 2014-15 to 141 tonnes in 2021-22, the equivalent of taking almost 200 petrol cars off the road each year.

The recent rollout of a kerbside food waste collection service to households is also expected to continue emissions reductions and council is exploring other less greenhouse intensive measures such as switching its vehicle fleet to electric, disconnecting remaining gas services and investing in more sustainable building and construction methods.

Council’s hope, Cr Ebbels said, is that households will follow the lead.

“Making the choice to buy 100 per cent renewable energy, install solar panels, or leave the car at home can dramatically reduce your impact on the climate.

“What Council has achieved over the past year shows that small changes can add up to a big impact, and I hope we can inspire some of our residents to take the next step on our journey to becoming a more climate-friendly community.”