Surf Coast Council seeks sustainable future

The Surf Coast Shire Council is organising a forum to help reduce emissions and be a leading part of the solution for a more sustainable future

The Council is teaming up with local environmental groups to run the forum on Thursday August 25, and will be a collaboration between the Surf Coast Shire Council, Surfers for Climate and Surf Coast Energy Group.

The Forum, titled From Possibility to Action will be held at Happy Spaces in Torquay, Councillor Mike Bodsworth said it will provide an opportunity for locals, businesses and groups to come together to identify local solutions to climate change

“From our world famous coastlines to our lush and fertile hinterland, the Surf Coast Shire’s unique environment and enviable lifestyle are at risk of the effects of climate change,” Cr Bodsworth said.

“We all know that we are stronger and better when we work together and I’m proud to be working side by side with these community groups to face this problem head on.”

The upcoming forum follows on from an initial film screening and panel discussion last month hosted by Surfers for Climate, which aimed at inspiring and connecting the community, while sharing local data and solutions.

“I see a lot of passionate people in our community wanting to engage on climate solutions but with a problem so complex, often it’s overwhelming to know where to start,” Surfers for Climate Co-Founder Belinda Baggs said

“We hope these forums help connect the dots with projects that are already up and running in our local area and help gather a network to start planning a project of their own.”

SCEG committee member Stephen Prendergast said he hoped the forum would provide an opportunity to be a part of the solution and not just a passive, worried observer.

“The community is ready for change, it just needs fresh thinking and focus,” Mr Prendergast said.

“Our aim is to bring together like minded people from all walks of life. You will see a variety of projects you could contribute to in areas such as renewable energy transition, energy efficiency, re-wilding land to improve biodiversity, waste reduction and water conservation.”

For more information and to register go to bit.ly/SCClimateForum.

 

 

Image:  Jarrah Lynch – Surfers for Climate