At their final Council meeting on Thursday 18 September, Kāpiti Coast District Council adopted the district’s Emission Reductions Strategy. This new strategy will guide the district’s emissions reduction focus over the next 15 years.

Kāpiti Coast District Councillor Sophie Handford says addressing a changing climate and supporting households and businesses to build a more prosperous, healthier and low carbon Kāpiti has been one of the Council’s top priorities over the past triennium.

“The Emissions Reduction Strategy outlines the principles, pathways, and partnerships needed to achieve our aspirational goal of reaching net zero emissions by 2040,” says Cr Handford.

“But this strategy is about more than cutting emissions, it’s about futureproofing Kāpiti.

“By taking action, we can create warmer homes, healthier communities and a stronger local economy that thrives in a low carbon world.

“It also delivers on the community aspirations we heard via Vision Kāpiti, and feedback received through engagement on our draft strategy earlier this year.”

Climate and Environment Subcommittee Chair Councillor Jocelyn Prvanov says by reducing emissions, people can also reduce their power and fuel bills, improve their health, and enhance community connectedness.

“Many of our residents are already taking steps by choosing low emissions transport, improving the energy efficiency of their homes, and reducing waste. This strategy builds on this momentum and supports our community to go further, faster.”

Since 2010, the Council has reduced its own emissions by 72 percent. Building on this leadership, the new strategy focuses on making low carbon transport the new norm, creating healthier homes and lover power bills, cutting waste emissions and using less landfill, and increasing forest cover.

“We want to create conditions that encourage everyone, including businesses and community organisations, to take action in ways that are practical, affordable, and impactful,” says Cr Prvanov.

In the new triennium, incoming Councillors will consider the priority for the existing work programme and options for any additional activities or initiatives through future Annual and Long-term Plan processes in consultation with the community.

Note:

The draft Emissions Reduction Strategy can be found in the Council agenda item here [https://kapiticoast.resolve.red/web/UserControls/pdf/web/DocPDFWrapper.aspx?ad=618&token=58953cd0-684d-4c65-9bd1-635b6c891093] . The completed version will be available on Council’s website by the end of September.

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