THE City of Coffs Harbour’s decision to defer the adoption of the Climate Risk and Adaptation Policy at the last Council meeting until a report on the costs, measures, and resourcing required to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030 and 2050 is presented to Council, is risking dumping the policy for politics.
While it is understandable that financial and logistical considerations should be a part of the ongoing Renewable Energy and Emissions Reduction Plan (REERP) implementation, the political intent behind this delay raises questions about the genuine commitment of Council to address the costs of the climate crisis.
The urgency of the situation demands action, and delaying policy direction on the final stage of the REERP undermines how close we are to meeting our targets for a political agenda.
The economic consensus is clear: the longer we delay, the more costly and challenging it becomes to mitigate the effects of climate change.
By continuing to defer action in the name of cost-benefit analysis, we risk compromising our future and the wellbeing of future generations.
Rather than continuing to delay, it is crucial that Council leave politics at the door and allow independent experts to guide Council in the transition to a cheaper and energy secure future.
As a community, we must demand a climate policy that prioritises long-term economic, environmental and energy security over political ideology.
Sincerely,
Cr Jonathan CASSELL,
City of Coffs Harbour.
DEAR News Of The Area,
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