Council demonstrates commitment to environmental sustainability

Published on 26 November 2021

Colac Otway Shire Council has adopted an updated Environmental Sustainability Policy, setting a framework to continue to incorporate sustainable practices in all aspects of Council services and operations.

Mayor Kate Hanson said the policy demonstrated Council’s commitment to environmental sustainability, which was a strong theme which emerged from the community in development of the Council Plan.

“A key message which emerged from the community engagement we undertook in development of the Council Plan included protection of the natural environment and concern for living sustainably.

“In delivering projects and services for the Colac Otway community we remain accountable and committed to demonstrating environmental best practice.

“The Policy builds on progress Council has made so far, and sets the scope for how environmental sustainability principles will influence our decisions to maintain and enhance our quality of life now and into the future.”

Mayor Hanson said Council’s investment and focus on sustainability over the past 10 years to achieve carbon neutrality demonstrated Colac Otway’s leadership and commitment to environmental sustainability.

“There has been a great deal of work undertaken across the organisation to improve efficiencies and reduce our carbon footprint. We were the first rural Council to achieve carbon neutral status. This has resulted in a more sustainable future for Council and our community and significant cost savings,” Cr Hanson said.

“We are setting an important example for our residents and we have committed to continuing to reduce emissions with the change from gas boilers to electric heat pumps at Bluewater and transition to electric vehicles.”

The updated Environmental Sustainability Policy will be available to view on Council’s website.