Strategy adopted to protect and sustain Baw Baw’s natural environment

Guided by community feedback, Council has adopted the Environmental Sustainability Strategy that will shape its environmental practices and sustainability goals for Baw Baw Shire over the next 8 years.  

Throughout late 2021 and mid-2022, Council asked its residents what matters most to them when it comes to sustainability in the Shire. 

Using the feedback gathered from the community, alongside input from Council’s Environmental Voice Advisory Committee consisting of Councillors and community members, the draft Environmental Sustainability Strategy 2022-2030 was developed and put out on exhibition for final public review between 13 June to 10 July 2022. 

At the Council Meeting held Wednesday 14 September, the final Strategy was presented and adopted by Council.  

To guide Council’s actions towards positive environmental outcomes, the adopted Strategy outlines 4 goals: 

1. To reduce energy use and emissions.
2. To create sustainable and resilient communities. 
3. To protect the natural environment.
4. To shift towards a more circular economy.  

Each of these goals proposes a range of initiatives that Council will explore within a four-year time frame, including the developing a Carbon Emissions Reduction Plan, introducing a Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) service to reduce landfill and continued investment in energy efficiency projects.  

To view Council’s Environmental Sustainability Strategy 2022-2030 in full, go to: A-Z Policies and Documents

Quote attributable to Mayor Cr Michael Leaney 
“It was important that this Strategy reflects the adapting preferences and expectations of our growing Shire. I thank the community members for their participation and valuable feedback throughout the consultation process and in shaping this Strategy.” 

Quote attributable to East Ward Cr Peter Kostos and Environmental Voice Advisory Committee Representative 
“Our Shire is known for its natural beauty, vast pastures, and rich agricultural land. It is this beauty that attracts people to our region, and we need to ensure that it is maintained and protected for the future of our Shire and its residents.”  

Quote attributable to West Ward Cr Keith Cook and Environmental Voice Advisory Committee Representative 
“After gathering feedback from the community throughout the consultation period, several changes were made to the Strategy. This new Strategy guides Council with better decision making towards an overall healthy environment for our Shire."