The City of Whittlesea is excited to be launching the Council's Zero Net Emissions Plan.
Council's goal is to become a leader in clean, sustainable living and a Zero Net Emissions organisation by 2022.
Manager Major Projects Nick Mazzarella said the plan sets a clear, strong, achievable pathway in climate change action.
"We know how important it is to address climate change, which is not just a distant problem, but one that science tells us we can expect to bring serious impacts at a local level in the coming years. In fact, most experts believe we are dealing with the adverse effects already, as we saw with last summer's severe bushfires," Mr Mazzarella said.
Council has already upgraded 12,500 street lights with LED and CFL lamps, installed solar power systems across more than 60 Council buildings and purchased fuel efficient and electric vehicles for Council's fleet among other energy initiatives.
"Since 2011, we have reduced our annual emissions by 19.7 per cent and reduced our annual energy and operation costs by $1.175 million," Mr Mazzarella said.
"A further 20 per cent of our emissions are offset each year. These are substantial achievements that position us as a leading council in sustainability.
"Sustainable environment is one of the four key priorities in our Whittlesea 2040 vision, which is apt because there are real risks to our city if climate change is not addressed.
"These include longer and more severe fire seasons, higher average temperatures (an increase of up 2.7 degrees Celsius), a decrease in annual rainfall, and more severe rainfall events when it does rain.
"We know this kind of action makes a difference, and we hope our commitment in this area inspires others in our community to follow suit."
