Human-induced greenhouse gas emissions have accelerated global warming, causing significant temperature rises and more frequent severe climate events. These changes lead to biodiversity loss, species extinction, and degradation of natural systems, impacting public health, food and water security, livelihoods, infrastructure, and economic development. Limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels is critical to avoid irreversible damage. New Zealand's Climate Change Response (Zero Carbon) Amendment Act 2019 aims to reduce net emissions to zero by 2050, with specific targets for biogenic methane.

Achieving net zero requires emission reductions and through this strategy council plans to reduce its own emissions, while providing clear information and educate the community on the complex topic.

For more information on the transition to a low carbon future for our district, see page 17 in the draft strategy.

6.1 Set an emissions reduction target with a focus on Council activities

• A. Research and present emission reduction scenarios to Council.
• B. Adopt an overall emissions reduction target for council greenhouse gas emissions that is achievable.
• C. Set interim emission reduction targets to ensure we are progressing to our overall reduction target.

6.2 Continue to measure Council’s greenhouse gas emissions, and adopt and implement emissions reduction plan

• A. Continue to measure Council’s GHG emissions annually and audit the inventory.
• B. Make use of the emissions reduction plan to reduce ADC’s emissions and report progress to the community.

6.3 Promote and encourage sustainable transport in the community

• A. Invest in walking & cycling infrastructure to reduce emissions through the Walking & Cycling Strategy 2020 – 2030.
• B. Encourage community to make use of sustainable ways of transport as stated in goal 4 Walking & Cycling Strategy (Goal 4: A district committed to walking and cycling for health, well-being, safety, environmental and economic reasons)
• C. Advocate for the implementation of a public transport service in Ashburton (town) and Canterbury.
• D. Investigate implementation of workride benefit programme for ADC and promote to other organisations.

6.4 Increase carbon sinks in the Ashburton District

• A. See Goal 2.3.C – ‘Investigate and support the development of constructed wetlands around the district.’ (This also includes planting trees) + acknowledge the existing carbon sinks in the district.

6.5 Engage with and educate the community on greenhouse gas emissions

• A.Launch an education and outreach program, aimed at increasing awareness and understanding of greenhouse gas emissions among community members and local businesses, with the goal of fostering sustainable practices and reducing emissions.

6.6 Monitor emissions and report to the public

• A. Publish the annual emissions report detailing Council’s progress, key sources of emissions, and reduction achievements
• B. Develop an emissions dashboard that the public can access online that displays real-time or regular updated emissions data, trends and targets

Note: for more details on the actions, e.g. Council's role, who is involved, when it is scheduled and the funding, please see the action plan in the draft strategy on page 23 to 42.