Hutt City Council has established a new Climate Change and Sustainability Committee.
Lower Hutt Mayor Campbell Barry said caring for and protecting the environment would be a key priority in the council’s 10-year plan.
“The new committee will have oversight to make sure Council meets its commitments, and delivers on the community’s expectations,” Cr Barry said.
“Last year our Council declared a climate emergency, and Central Government has now followed suit.
“As Mayor, it’s important for me that our actions match our commitments – and that we dedicate an appropriate level of resource towards environmental initiatives. I’m confident the new committee will have the mandate to ensure that happens.”
He said the new Climate Change and Sustainability Committee would oversee Council’s overall environment and climate change response, including implementation of strategies to achieve carbon zero, the decarbonisation of council assets, developing and implementing environmental policies, and overseeing waste and recycling.
Councillor Josh Briggs has been appointed as the inaugural chair of the Committee.
“On a personal level, tackling climate change and ensuring our city is more resilient is a top priority for me. It is a real privilege to be in a position to ensure our Council is raising awareness about climate change and prioritising the need to reduce our emissions to net zero,” Cr Briggs says.
“I’m looking forward to engaging with the community, particularly through the upcoming 10-year plan process, to ensure that climate change and sustainability is front and centre of Council’s work for the years ahead.”
The new Climate Change and Sustainability Committee will hold its first meeting in the new year. Meeting dates and meeting papers will be published on Infocouncil.
