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Council Committed To Climate Change WorkBass Coast Shire Council says climate impacts and environmental management are important issues for the local community. By Bass Coast - 6th July 2012 - Back to News "Climate change is an issue that is generating worldwide debate and action," says Acting Chief Executive Officer, Danny Luna.
"While we appreciate there are different views about climate change, we are required by federal and state governments to prepare for the expected impacts. Our community is keenly interested in the environment and the work of the Landcare Network, Coast Action and our many volunteer groups is testament to that."
Mr Luna said it was disappointing that the Victorian Farmers Federation had criticised Gippsland councils for the work they are doing on the impact of climate change.
"Where possible, we undertake this research in partnership with neighbouring councils, to reduce costs. This research has a specific regional focus and complements, not replicates, research being done by other agencies," explained Mr Luna.
"Along with all the members of the Gippsland Local Government Network (GLGN), we have committed $80,000 over four years for an impacts and adaptation project. I understand all ratepayers, including farmers, are concerned about rate rises; however it seems short sighted to single out this particular project for criticism."
Mr Luna also defended the decision to employ a Climate Change Project Officer.
"This is an important part of our climate change project. The officer will focus on vulnerable areas, talking with the community about their needs, and including this information in our future capital works programs."
Environment Manager, Alison Creighton, said Bass Coast was in a unique position compared to many rural communities.
"Our environmental considerations have to include the needs of our rural and our coastal communities," said Ms Creighton.
"The GLGN project will investigate the impacts of climate change in Gippsland, with a focus on agricultural development, so there is a real benefit for farmers."
Ms Creighton said Council’s environmental approach had a joint focus on mitigation and adaptation.
Mitigation
"Mitigation work aims to reduce emissions through projects such as: promoting recycling and reducing the amount of waste going into landfill; installing water tanks and solar panels on Council facilities; swapping our fleet to fuel efficient, low emission vehicles and an energy efficiency program.
"Coast Action groups, conservation societies, Landcare, Phillip Island Nature Parks, residents and ratepayers associations and schools, work in partnership with Council to green our landscape and plant over 170,000 trees and plants," explained Ms Creighton.
"This improves the capacity of our environment to absorb carbon."
Adaptation
Ms Creighton said Council drew on existing research and undertook regionally specific research to help assess what the potential impacts of climate change might be.
"Council is required to plan for a sea-level rise of 0.8 metres by 2100. We are mapping potential impacts and identifying vulnerable communities. There are real imperatives for this kind of research. There are existing subdivisions right across Gippsland, including in Bass Coast, which would not be permitted with our current knowledge.
"Every year, Council and the community incur significant costs in those areas undertaking remedial works on drainage and roads. The research also impacts on our land use planning. For example, developments close to the coast might require Coastal Hazard Vulnerability Assessments, other areas that might be subject to flooding have restrictions on use."
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com
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