Have your say on the Southern Downs Region Environmental Sustainability Strategy

05 February 2021

Have your say on the Southern Downs Region Environmental Sustainability Strategy

Southern Downs Regional Council is encouraging community members to help shape the development of an environmental sustainability strategy to sustain and enhance the region’s environmental value.

Community feedback will be an important part of the strategy which aims to prepare the region for a climate change impacted future.

Southern Downs Councillor Cameron Gow said Council wants to hear from the community, understand their priorities and listen to their ideas.

“Our community has been experiencing the direct impacts of climate change with an increase in the frequency and severity of droughts, bushfires and extreme weather events,” Councillor Gow said.

“This is the community’s chance to let us know how we can support them and create an environmentally sustainable future for our region.

“Our strategy will focus on saving water, decreasing carbon emissions, growing the local economy and protecting local ecosystems.

“We are extremely proud of the efforts the community has made in all of these areas, particularly during the current drought where we saw the community come together, reducing daily household water usage.

“We want to ensure these efforts are reflected in Council’s strategy, which starts by hearing from those who have been taking action.

“What do you see as a priority for the community? What strategies and programs should Council be working on first?

“We will use the feedback we receive to shape the strategy and fill in any gaps regarding how we should protect and sustain our region.”

Community consultation will begin on 5 February 2021 and close on 4 March 2021.

Community members can have their say by completing an online survey or contacting Council directly by emailing sustainability@sdrc.qld.gov.au or calling 1300 697 372.

For more information about the environmental sustainability strategy and how to provide feedback, visit www.sdrc.qld.gov.au/living-here/have-your-say.