Have your say on Hawkesbury Council's net zero emissions and water efficiency strategy

Council said it welcomed the opportunity to engage with and seek feedback from all stakeholders regarding the strategy, which is based around a commitment to become a net zero emissions organisation by 2050, if not sooner.

Council itself aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2030 or earlier; to have no net increase in potable water use (from Sydney Water mains); and for all non-potable water demand to be serviced using recycled water.

For the Hawkesbury community, the strategy recommends aiming to achieve a 25 per cent reduction in emissions relative to the FY2016/2017 baseline by 2028; a 60 per cent reduction in emissions relative to the FY2016/2017 baseline by 2036; and net zero emissions by 2050 through strategies and carbon offsets.

Also for the Hawkesbury community, the strategy outlines no net increase in water use relative to the FY2016/2017 baseline by 2028; under 5 per cent increase in water use relative to the FY2016/2017 baseline by 2036; and under 25 per cent increase in water use relative to the FY2016/2017 baseline by 2050.

The Draft Strategy covers six strategies Council hopes to undertake to take Hawkesbury towards net zero. These are: a more resilient and renewable powered grid; greener suburbs and better design; low carbon and local transport; towards a zero-waste community; drought resilient, green centres; and Council leading by example.

The Draft Strategy is available to view and comment on via Council's website at www.hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au via the 'Have Your Say' tab, or via www.yourhawkesbury-yoursay.com.au, as well as at Council's Administration Building at 366 George Street, Windsor until Monday, February 15.