NATIONAL SUMMIT: COUNCILS CAN CAPITALISE ON CLEAN ECONOMY
OPPORTUNITIES for cities and regions to capitalise on the clean economy and create thousands of jobs will be discussed at a national local government summit today.
Hosted by the Cities Power Partnership, the virtual summit will bring together more than 250 local government representatives to develop and accelerate the big ideas and solutions revolutionising Australia's approach to energy and climate change.
Cities Power Partnership director, Dr Portia Odell said the potential for cities and regions to invest in clean industries that create jobs, cleaner cities and regional resilience was enormous.
"From energy to transport, local governments have an abundance of opportunities to deliver projects to decarbonise communities," said Dr Odell.
"Just last week, we saw a staggering 46 Victorian councils partner up to pool their electricity contracts and switch to renewable energy. As of July 1, 45 per cent of all Victorian council electricity will be powered by renewable wind energy.
"Partnerships like these are showing the impact local governments have when it comes to collaborating to create effective local strategies that can lead to huge emissions reductions."
Climate Council spokesperson, Professor Lesley Hughes said local governments were an important part of Australia's climate solution as the impacts of climate change worsen.
"As the Federal Government stagnates on climate, towns and cities are stepping into the void and creating a strong and prosperous future for Australian communities," said Professor Hughes.
"Local governments working together and with their local communities are showing us the many benefits that decarbonising our economy delivers, such as regional jobs, cleaner cities and cheaper power.
"We're looking forward to the next wave of clean energy partnerships and solutions that arise from this Summit."
The Summit will cover issues including setting and achieving net zero targets, capitalising on the clean economy, investing in large-scale renewable energy, building resilience and adapting to climate change, and working together for greater impact.
