The Whakatāne community is being encouraged to share their thoughts on the council’s climate change strategy as the crisis continues to impact homes, jobs, and even lives. Glen Crowther, the executive director of Sustainable Bay of Plenty, commended Whakatāne District Council’s draft Climate Change Strategy at a recent event. He compared their approach favorably to other councils, praising their proactive efforts to engage with the community on this issue.
The council’s strategy aims to reduce its total greenhouse gas emissions by 7% by 2027, 12% by 2030, 29% by 2040, and 39% by 2050. It also sets goals for helping the community make energy changes in homes, schools, and workplaces. Whakatāne Mayor Victor Luca expressed his deep concern about climate change and emphasized that it’s everyone’s responsibility.
Cashy Ball, the council’s climate change project manager, stressed that climate change is not a future problem but a current one. She cited Cyclone Gabrielle as an example, estimating that it could cost over 2% of the national GDP, potentially more than what’s needed to address the climate change crisis.
The council’s strategy, first drafted in 2020, is under review due to political changes, technological advancements, and societal shifts. The council has identified 226 actions and is seeking public input on them. Not all of these actions are funded in the current draft long-term plan. The community is urged to submit their feedback by April 12.
