Zero Net Emissions by 2025

Published on 03 March 2023

On 21 February, Mansfield Shire Council adopted a Climate Action Plan, which details how Council will address its contribution to climate change and work towards achieving zero net emissions by 2025.

The plan includes actions related to Council operations, and actions where Council can support the wider Mansfield Shire community to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to a changing climate.

The plan was developed by contractor Ironbark Sustainability for Mansfield Shire Council, with the project team working closely with Council and external groups such as the Goulburn Murray Climate Alliance and the Climate Ready Hume program.

Mayor Cr James Tehan said Council understands that adapting to climate change is important to the Mansfield Shire way of life which is why Council has adopted the Climate Action Plan.

“Climate Change impacts everyone and this plan sets out what Council can do to play our part, understanding that everyone in our community can make a difference in reducing their emissions footprint.

“Council has listened carefully to the community feedback, and we are proud to take the lead in this space by committing to net zero emissions for Council operations by the end of 2025”.

Initial engagement asking the community to give their input into the development of the plan saw 179 responses with a strong community focus on solar, electric vehicle charging stations, waste and recycling, and a commitment to net zero.

Key actions to be undertaken by Council to achieve the goal of zero net emissions include renewable power purchase, solar and energy efficient facilities, street lighting updates, low emissions fleet transition, and the purchasing of offsets.

The Climate Action Plan also includes a range of ways in which Council can support the community to reduce their carbon emissions.  

To view the Climate Action Plan, please visit mansfield.vic.gov.au/ClimateActionPlan