Counting Down to Zero Net Emissions for Council Operations Plan

Council recently endorsed the 2-year review and refreshed Counting Down to Zero Plan 2026-2030. The 'plan' outlines Council’s updated roadmap to achieve net zero emissions from Council operations by 30 June 2030. It builds on the original plan adopted in 2022 and focuses on practical actions that reduce emissions, lower operating costs, and improve sustainability across Council facilities, fleet, and services.

Achievements since its first adoption:

• Feasibility assessments to transition Council highest emitting or complex facilities, including Gisborne & Kyneton Aquatic Centre, Kyneton Town Hall, Red Brick Hall and Kyneton Mechanic Institute
• Completion of a Fleet & Plant review including an EV fleet feasibility assessment
• Installation of EV charging stations at all three Council office locations
• Continued small scale gas appliance upgrade to electric alternatives
• The introduction of a ‘Climate Impact Assessment’ in all Council reports and project planning processes
• Commencement of a review of Council’s Sustainable Buildings Policy
• Roll-out of climate change awareness training for key staff and Senior Leaders

The update includes a focus on increasing the energy efficiency of the shire's two aquatic centres, as well as, increasing our transition towards a low-emissions fleet. These two aspects of our operations and service delivery are responsible for 85% of Council's total emissions. 

Key changes:

• Updated emissions boundary and baseline
• Elevation council's highest emitting operations and services and detailed implementation methods
• Introduction of an internal Zero Net Emissions Working Group
• Improved monitoring and accountability to track progress towards 2030 targets.

The Plan is set to include another review before its conclusion in 2030 to ensure it remains practical, effective and responsive to new technologies and opportunities.