Seven of the Hunter's 10 councils have committed to tackling climate change after Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens and Cessnock councils joined the Cities Power Partnership.
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Lake Macquarie mayor Kay Fraser said she was delighted the council has joined the partnership, Australia's largest local government climate network.
"Taking meaningful action on climate is very important to our community. We know we face a range of challenges in building a sustainable and resilient future and that's why we've joined the Cities Power Partnership," she said.
The program will accelerate the council's environmental sustainability strategy and action plan that includes a 100 per cent renewable energy target for the council and for 80 per cent of residents to use more renewable energy, more active transport and conserve water.
"So far, we've installed solar panels across 27 Council buildings, rolled out 5600 LED streetlights and are encouraging renewable energy uptake in our community," Cr Fraser said.
Port Stephens mayor Ryan Palmer said the council and the community has benefited from taking action on climate for many years.
"From rolling out solar on council buildings to restoring beloved bushland, council has been working to cut emissions, save on energy bills and provide green spaces for the community to enjoy," Cr Palmer said.
"The Cities Power Partnership will help advance our work in this space, including a sustainability action plan that will set clear emission reduction and renewable energy targets to create a strong, clean local economy."
Cessnock Mayor Bob Pynsent said the partnership reaffirmed the council's commitment to positive action on climate change.
"It recognises the importance of environmental improvements at all levels of government. It also aligns with our recently adopted climate change policy and will facilitate the sharing of knowledge with like-minded councils to reduce our emissions and build climate resilience."
Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens and Cessnock joined forces with MidCoast Council, Upper Hunter Shire Council, Muswellbrook Shire and City of Newcastle, existing members of the Cities Power Partnership.
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IN THE NEWS:
Matthew Kelly
Matthew Kelly has worked as a journalist for more than 25 years. He has been working as a general reporter at the Newcastle Herald since 2018. In recent years he has reported on subjects including environment, energy, water security, manufacturing and higher education. He has previously covered issues including the health and environmental impacts of uncovered coal wagons in the Hunter Valley, the pollution of legacy of former industrial sites and freedom of information issues.
Matthew Kelly has worked as a journalist for more than 25 years. He has been working as a general reporter at the Newcastle Herald since 2018. In recent years he has reported on subjects including environment, energy, water security, manufacturing and higher education. He has previously covered issues including the health and environmental impacts of uncovered coal wagons in the Hunter Valley, the pollution of legacy of former industrial sites and freedom of information issues.
