In alignment with the Australian Government's goal to reduce GHG emissions by 43% on 2005 levels by 2030 and the South Australian Government's commitment to achieving more than 50% reductions by 2030, the council is setting its sights even higher. With a strong foundation laid in the council’s Climate Change Action Plan and ongoing initiatives, Mount Barker District Council is making tangible progress towards a sustainable future.

In 2019, the council adopted a Climate Change Action Plan, committing to a 3% annual emissions reduction over five years for both community and corporate emissions. As part of this commitment, the council has outlined five priority actions for emissions reduction, including setting corporate and district-level renewable energy targets, installing renewable energy systems, and retrofitting council buildings to enhance energy efficiency.

Key initiatives under the Climate Change Action Plan include the development of a Corporate Energy and Emissions Reduction Plan (CEERP), which aims to reduce corporate greenhouse gas emissions and energy use. The CEERP has been created in partnership with Dsquared Consulting as part of the Local Government Association’s Net Zero Accelerate Program. The plan includes a detailed emissions inventory and recommendations for reducing energy consumption across key council facilities.

Notably, the council has identified its top five emission sources: electricity and gas (61%), transport (24%), supply chain (6%), waste (5%), and water (2%). In response, the council is exploring renewable energy installations, such as solar photovoltaic systems, electric vehicle transitions, and energy efficiency upgrades across its facilities, including the Summit Aquatic and Leisure Centre.

To further support emissions reductions, the council has allocated $150,000 for alternative energy initiatives, including renewable energy systems, electric vehicle transitions, and other sustainability projects. By setting an ambitious 60% emissions reduction target by 2035, with a stretch target of 75%, the council aims to exceed South Australia’s goal of a 50% reduction by 2030 and lead by example within the community.

Mount Barker District Council’s ongoing efforts to reduce emissions, improve energy efficiency, and transition to renewable energy are setting a strong foundation for a sustainable future. With the support of the CEERP and future strategies, the council is demonstrating leadership and commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050.