Climate Change on Council's Agenda

Published on 22 April 2019

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Snowy Valleys Council will host a free Climate Change Forum at the Batlow Literary Institute on April 29th from 10am – 3pm to build on the community’s understanding of key themes around climate change and to provide an opportunity for localised feedback on the impacts of climate change.

Acting Director Strategy, Community and Development Shelley Jones said that it was vitally important that the community have a voice in the identification of existing and emerging risks to the Snowy Valleys arising from Climate Change.

“This forum presents an opportunity to further educate and work directly with the community to update the Climate Change Risk Assessment for the Snowy Valleys,” Ms. Jones said.

The purpose of the event is to share information with the community through presentations and discussions with local and national academics and experts.

Presenting on the day will be staff from the Office of Environment and Heritage who have been working on developing information and tools for adaptation measures for local governments across the state.

OEH staff will discuss key topics such as climate projections and impacts of climate change.

The keynote address will be given by academics from Charles Sturt University’s Institute for Land, Water and Society. The Institute is a research body focused on social and environmental sustainability in regional and rural areas. Adjunct Professor Peter Waterman will discuss ‘Climate proofing in the Snowy Valleys Region’ and will answer questions from attendees.

Council staff will share information about current climate change planning, and actions already in place and waste management.

The presentations will be followed by a panel discussion with leading local experts and researchers who have firsthand knowledge and experience in the region.

“Council recognises the importance of demonstrating leadership in addressing climate change and its impacts on our communities through responsible planning and collaboration,” Ms Jones said.

The forum is the first step in developing an updated Snowy Valleys Council Climate Change Risk Assessment, which Council has identified as a priority task at its Extraordinary Council Meeting in January 2019.

The Climate Change Forum is free to attend, however spaces are limited. All interested community members are encouraged to register their attendance with Council’s Acting Economic Development Officer by emailing [email protected] or by phoning 6948 9195.

 

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