NSW Climate Change Action Plan
On March 10 2008, the Premier announced that NSW will develop a Climate Change Action Plan to replace the NSW Greenhouse Plan. Since the release of the NSW Greenhouse Plan in 2005, the community, business and government attitudes to climate change have changed considerably, and a new Federal government has been elected that is committed to action. An opportunity exists to update the NSW Greenhouse Plan, and redirect effort towards new priorities, consistent with the NSW State Plan, and with community and business expectation. In particular, the NSW Government will give greater attention to adapting to the unavoidable impacts of climate change.
In announcing the plan Premier Iemma said the Government's investment in science and research showed the areas where NSW needs to focus its efforts included:
- working with the building industry to consider whether current design standards for homes in storm and flood prone areas are strong enough to withstand harsher weather events in the future
- working with local councils and planners to respond to the impacts of long term sea level rise
- readying ourselves for more intense and frequent bushfires
- planning to support the elderly and vulnerable - particularly those with chronic heart and lung disease - to cope with the expected increase in heatwaves. This could involve expanding our understanding of heat related illness and developing prevention and health promotion programs
- preparing our economy for the challenges and opportunities that will come in a carbon-constrained economy
- ensuring we look after our natural environment as the climate changes, especially vulnerable areas like the alpine region
- ensuring that our agricultural communities have the technology and science they need to adapt to changing weather patterns.
Development and implementation of the plan
DECC is responsible for leading the development and implementation of the plan. A whole of government approach will draw on existing expertise already present across the NSW Government, ensuring climate change considerations are incorporated into the work of many government agencies. The plan is intended to be finalised by mid 2009.
Involving the community
During the development of the plan there will be extensive consultation, from local rotary clubs, bush care groups, chambers of commerce and bushfire brigades through to councils and government agencies.
Public consultation forums will be held in the nine State Plan regions, beginning at the end of September. See the full list of forums and how you can book a spot.
Regional community consultation forums resource kit
The resource kit complements the presentations made at the forums. It explains why the NSW Government is developing a Climate Change Action Plan.