MEDIA RELEASE - Sutherland Shire Council calls for community input on Draft Climate Strategy

Sutherland Shire Council is seeking community feedback on a comprehensive Draft Climate Strategy 2050 which outlines a long-term vision to make climate action a reality and to maintain the liveability local residents value.

The draft strategy’s vision is to implement urgent, strong, and equitable climate change action to achieve net zero by 2030 for the Council and by 2050 for the community.

Sutherland Shire Mayor, Councillor Jack Boyd, emphasised the importance of community involvement in shaping the strategy to ensure it reflects the needs and aspirations of residents.

"Our community's input is crucial in developing a robust and effective Climate Strategy,” he said.

“We want to ensure that our actions align with the aspirations of our residents and that together, we can achieve a sustainable future.

“To fulfil our community's liveability goals there will be a focus on renewable energy, sustainable transport, and actions to minimise waste.

“By implementing these measures, we aim to mitigate the equivalent of nearly two million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions generated annually.

“This significant reduction in emissions demonstrates our leadership in addressing climate change and achieving net zero together.”

The document outlines three focus areas. These include Thrive, which focusses on supporting our community to reduce their emissions and enable people and nature to thrive together, Design, which will ensure our parks, urban landscapes, homes, and connections are built sustainably in balance with nature and Lead, indicating our intent to lead by example through renewable energy, circular economy, and net zero fleet, construction, services, and facilities.

Residents can provide their feedback on the draft strategy several ways up until Friday 11 April. Complete our online survey or add to our ideas board on the Join The Conversation page on our website, or attend one of our information stalls to share your feedback and ideas with the project team:

  • Monday 17 March - 6pm to 8pm, Sutherland Library, 30-36 Belmont Street, Sutherland
  • Thursday 20 March - 2pm to 4pm, Cronulla Library, Cronulla Central, 38-60 Croydon Street, Cronulla
  • Saturday 22 March - 11am to 1pm, Sutherland Library, 30-36 Belmont Street, Sutherland
  • Saturday 5 April - 8am to 1pm, Shire Farmers’ Market, Flora Street Car Park, Sutherland

You can also send your feedback via email to envscience@ssc.nsw.gov.au or write to the Environmental Science Team, Sutherland Shire Council, Locked Bag 17, Sutherland 1499.

Following community consultation, feedback will be considered, and the draft strategy reviewed before being presented to the elected Council for adoption.

For more information and to read the Draft Climate Strategy 2050, please visit our website.