Push for climate emergency

Greater Shepparton City Council has been asked to battle climate change by declaring a climate emergency.

At tonight’s monthly council meeting, the agenda recommends the council declares the emergency, as well as adopt a 2030 zero carbon emissions target and develop action plans to support these issues.

The agenda said the Victorian Food Bowl was at risk of damage caused by climate change and there had been calls by community members to declare a climate emergency.

‘‘By declaring a climate emergency and commencing the considered planning required to manage the emergency, council will be in a prime position to demonstrate strong leadership, maximise opportunities and guide the community forwards in an orderly and just transition to ensure a prosperous and vibrant future under a changing climate,’’ the agenda said.

‘‘If we fail to do so, our livability, ability to attract investment and maintain a level of environmental, social and economic prosperity will diminish and, as a competitive regional city, we risk being left behind.’’

According to the agenda, a recent presentation to councillors by climate advocacy group The Shepparton Statement indicated that declaring an emergency reinforced the importance of action.

‘‘A youth representative commented that youth anxiety over climate change will be reduced by actions on climate change,’’ the agenda said.

Story from The Shepparton News by James Bennett.

(The meeting discussed in the above story was postponed and now will be held on Tuesday, March 31, at Shepparton's Eastbank Centre)