The drop (from 15,065 tonnes of CO2e in 2010-11 to 8,733 tonnes in 2018-19) comes in the wake of council energy reduction projects such as changing 12,000 streetlights to 14-watt LED technology in 2018 – slashing their electricity use by 40 per cent – and a program to “green” council-owned buildings.
The emissions reduction was boosted by the increase in renewable energy use at state level.
Council’s electricity use also dropped by 35 per cent since 2010-11.
Mayor Erin Thompson says the emissions reduction is a fantastic result for the environment, demonstrating how council’s long-term commitment to reducing our carbon footprint is paying off.
“City of Onkaparinga has been serious about reducing its carbon footprint for a long time, and we’ve been measuring our emissions for over 20 years.
“The 42 per cent reduction is really pleasing, but the work doesn’t stop here. We’ve been involved in a number of significant projects since to further reduce our emissions and future-proof our region from the impacts of climate change.”
Other exciting energy-reduction projects completed or underway in 2019-20 include:
A corporate emissions target will be brought to elected members by the end of 2019-20, which will be included in a Climate Change Response Plan currently under development.
The reduction announcement follows news a new material recycling facility will be built in the City of Onkaparinga through the Southern Region Waste Resource Authority (a subsidiary of Holdfast Bay, Marion and Onkaparinga councils), delivering more major benefits to the environment and economy.