Quest for Net Zero

We’ve all heard the term but what does it really mean?

Put simply, net zero refers to the balance between the amount of greenhouse gas (GHG) that's produced and the amount that's removed from the atmosphere. It can be achieved through a combination of emission reduction and emission removal.

Reaching net zero requires us to balance the amount of greenhouse gases we emit with the amount we remove. When what we add is no more than what we take away, we reach net zero.

In February 2020, Council adopted the declaration of a climate emergency in association with our actions for climate change.

Our aim is to show purpose and leadership on sustainability and environmental issues.

While Council has been working for some time to reduce its own emissions and support the community to live more sustainably, it’s time to accelerate our emissions reductions, ramp up the ways we support our community and prepare for changes to our city and community.

Council created a Sustainability Action Plan(PDF, 2MB) in 2021, community-driven Sustainability Advisory Committee to continue to develop and evolve this plan.

In addition, Council has committed to a Renewable Energy Target (RET) of 100% by 2030.

In January 2024, Council commenced work on a Net Zero Implementation Plan that will set out the strategic actions Council can take in order to reach net zero by 2050.

The term ‘carbon footprint’ is used to refer to the total amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions (such as methane) generated from our actions.

As an individual, some actions that can contribute to our carbon footprint include what modes of transport we use, the foods we eat and where they are sourced from, the type of house we live in, and how much waste we create.

About a quarter of Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions come from our homes. Changes to our activities at home, work and school can reduce emissions, lower our carbon footprint and, in many cases, save us money.

Around the home:

• Compost food scraps or use a worm farm
• Reduce your shower time – aim for 4 minutes or less
• Install a water-efficient shower head and fix dripping taps
• During the colder months, wear more clothing layers to keep warm before turning on the heater
• Set your air conditioner to 25 to 27°C for cooling in summer
• Set your heater to 18 to 20°C for warming in winter
• Keep appliances that need constant power connected to one plug. Turn off other appliances at the wall when not in use
• Remove one globe from multi-globe fittings and turn off lights when you leave the room

Other options that can have a greater impact, but require investment in time or money:

• Install solar panels
• Look for appliances that are energy efficient (the more stars, the better)
• Insulate your home and install double-glazed windows with curtains
• Replace old gas and electric water heaters with a heat pump hot water system
• Insulate your hot water unit and turn it off when you’re away
• Purchase an EV
• Switch to an energy plan that uses renewable sources