2016-05-10 Planning & Environment Committee Agenda

PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA                                     10 MAY 2016


5                        CARBON REDUCTION POLICY
DOCUMENT INFORM AT ION




Author                           Executive Manager, Debra Iezzi
                                 Executive Office

Index                            ECM/ Subject/ Sustainability

Attachments                      1.   Carbon Reduction Policy


EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This focus of this report is to gain Council’s approval of the attached “Carbon Reduction Policy”
which contains provisions for a zero emissions target. The Policy reinforces Council’s
commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in its operations and to energy efficiency.
Council has previously agreed to the development of a Carbon Reduction and Energy Efficiency
Plan which is yet to be developed. An important aspect of the Policy is the goal of a zero
emissions target and how Council scales its activities and measures achievements. In order to
make an informed decision in these areas it is crucial that Council have a better understanding of
its energy usage, carbon emissions, energy costs and potential options.

RECOMMENDATION
That Council note the report by the Executive Manager to the Planning & Environment
Committee Meeting dated 10 May 2016 and approve the Carbon Reduction Policy provided at
Attachment 1 to the Report.


REPORT
The purpose of this report is to obtain Council approval of the Carbon Reduction Policy
(Attachment 1). This Policy strengthens Council’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and
increasing energy efficiency in its operations.

1.                       Background

The previous report to the Planning and Organisation Committee on 15 September 2015
regarding the development of a Noosa Council Carbon Reduction and Energy Efficiency Plan
discussed the importance of providing direction and prioritising future efforts and investments to
reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase resource efficiency and build awareness and
resilience to a changing environment.

A Carbon Reduction and Energy Efficiency Plan was identified as being an important policy
document and an element of Council’s Corporate Plan which identifies the importance of
protecting our environment, enhancing our lifestyle, responding to climate change and building
community capacity.

While there is no clearly defined legislative requirement for councils to have a Carbon Reduction
& Energy Efficiency Plan or Policy, many Local Governments are showing leadership in this area.
Noosa is known for its commitment to sustainability and its local environment, while also being
recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.




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