A new report has found the City of Greater Geelong reduced its carbon emissions across its operations by 30 per cent in the four years to June 2021.
Councillors received the City’s Sustainability Performance Report at their March meeting to track the City’s progress towards its Sustainability Framework Action Plan, which aimed to set the region up for an economically, environmentally, and socially sustainable future.
The report revealed the City had recycled more than 95 per cent of all asphalt, concrete and bluestone used in its construction program, and assumed responsibility for more than 105 extra hectares of natural habitat in 2020–21.
Deputy mayor Trent Sullivan said the council was committed to tracking the rate of improvement across the three priority areas of the Sustainability Framework.
“Yearly checks will enable everyone to understand our rate of improvement and highlight the long-term changes needed to meet our ambitious targets,” he said.
“The pandemic has unfortunately impacted a handful of our initiatives, but this first report shows some encouraging progress that is already making a tangible difference.”
The sustainability objectives range from climate change action and biodiversity protection, through to supporting local food production and creating a strong economy with jobs for all.
The report shows that of the 66 actions being implemented, almost 90 per cent were on track or complete by the end of 2021.
Just five actions were deemed ‘off-track’, with three of those directly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The report showed the City reduced its operational carbon footprint by five per cent.
It also introduced the first fully electric powered vehicles to its fleet, with plans to add another four electric vans two electric ride-on mowers in 2022.
Sustainability performance portfolio deputy chair Belinda Moloney said there was a sense of optimism in the results.
“We take these targets seriously. Council has taken a strong leadership position in this space, and we want to help create a more sustainable community to live and prosper in,” she said.
“It is now time for all levels of government and community members join us in working together towards a sustainable and thriving future for our pretty city.”
