Climate resilience and reducing emissions

Human-induced climate change has produced a climate and biodiversity emergency and urgent action at all levels of government is necessary to protect our environment and community for future generations.

The growth of greenhouse gas emissions from fossil-fuel generated energy, transport, waste disposal and land use are causing more frequent and extreme weather events such as bushfires, sea level rise, loss of wildlife and economic impacts.

In 2019, Waverley declared a Climate and Biodiversity Emergency, committing to accelerate our greenhouse gas emission reduction plans and integrate adaptation and resilience measures to restore a safe climate and repair ecosystems.

That’s why Waverley Council is striving for Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions in the community by 2035, which is reliant on all residents, businesses and community organisations making incremental but significant changes to the way we live.

'Net zero' refers to a balance between the greenhouse emissions produced and the emissions taken out of the atmosphere. Achieving net zero will not stop the impact of climate change, for instance temperatures are still expected to rise by at least 1.5°C, but it will limit the severity of the changes. Preparing for and adapting to climate change will make our community stronger, more resilient and safer.

In practice, reducing greenhouse emissions also often results in saving money over the long term, so Council and other government bodies are supporting residents to improve energy efficiency, go electric and to go solar. Browse how to contribute below.