Bold plan to meet net zero target
Kā piti Coast District Council strategy, operations and finance chairwoman Sophie Handford outlines a paradigm shift in council’s commitment to climate change
In the face of the climate crisis, our community stands at a pivotal moment. The decisions we make today will shape the future of Kā piti and have the potential to reverberate far beyond our district. The recent approval of an aspirational districtwide emissions reduction target of net zero by 2040 is a testament to our commitment to a low-emissions, resilient, and climate-just future.
This aspirational goal, endorsed by the climate and environment subcommittee before reaching the strategy, operations and finance committee, signifies a paradigm shift in our approach.
We mihi to the locals on our Climate Change and Resilience Community Think Tank. Their expertise and energy continues to be invaluable in charting a course toward achieving this target, and we will further engage with the community to ensure a collaborative and inclusive implementation plan.
A direction of travel document will be brought to you all early next year, to begin conversations about the practical actions we take to meet the target and hard numbers (both dollars and emissions reduction impact) that sit behind them. The decision to set a net zero target is more than just symbolic; it is a decisive step toward realising a multitude of co-benefits for our community. Beyond the environmental impact, climate action brings about greener communities, reduced congestion, enhanced social connectivity, and positive health outcomes. It’s an investment in our wellbeing and the wellbeing of future generations. However, we must be mindful that our aspirational goals hinge on our actions to meet them. The target is not merely a statement; it is a call to embrace the opportunities inherent in transformational change and more investment in our cycleways, walkways, and bridleways network, renewable energy generation and the restoration of native ngā here, to name a few. By doing so, we not only mitigate the impacts of climate change but also set a powerful example for others to follow.
The Kā piti Coast District Council holds levers that can drive change, but our role extends beyond mere governance. Advocacy plays a crucial part in realising our goals. We must advocate to Greater Wellington Regional Council on public transport and to central government for a funding model that empowers local government and communities, enabling us to take bold steps.
The approval of the net zero by 2040 target is a milestone, but it is just the beginning. Let us not only set ambitious goals but work collectively to surpass them. Together, we can create a Kā piti that not only survives but thrives in the face of the climate crisis — a beacon of inspiration for communities everywhere. The time for action is now. Our commitment today will shape the legacy we leave for future generations.