Improving the energy efficiency of government buildings through a $160 million building upgrade program and reducing the emissions from the government car fleet are key ways the government is showing leadership to tackle climate change.
Launching Taking Action for Victoria’s Future – The Victorian Climate Change White Paper Action Plan, the Premier, John Brumby today said Victoria was determined to lead the Australia in finding new and innovative solutions to reduce our emissions.
“Our Government is rising to the challenge of climate change, supporting new initiatives to cut emissions and create a climate of new economic opportunity,” Mr Brumby said.
“Our Government’s disciplined economic management means Victoria is in a position to lead the country in tackling climate change and locking in our sustainability for the future.
“We are leading by example by improving the efficiency of our government buildings, buying GreenPower for government departments and reducing emissions from our transport fleet.
“Today, our Government commits to increasing its existing energy efficiency target across government buildings from 20 per cent to 25 per cent by 2018.
“To do this, we will invest a further $100 million for the next stage of the Greener Government Buildings program to upgrade schools, hospitals and government buildings to reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions.
“This is in addition to the $60 million in Jobs for the Future Economy, bringing our total investment to $160 million and providing sustained investment in the energy services sector.
“We will also increase Government purchasing of GreenPower from 25 per cent to 50 per cent by 2020, providing additional investment for Australia’s renewable energy sector above and beyond the national renewable energy target.”
Mr Jennings said the Victorian Government would also lead the way by reducing its overall fleet emissions by 20 per cent by 2015, including the purchase of 2,000 hybrid Toyota Camrys.
“Our Government understands that a clean environment is crucial to the future. That’s why we are working in partnership with other governments to drive new initiatives that benefit the environment and will also see our economy continue to grow,” Mr Jennings said.
“The Victorian Government will hold a Local Government Climate Change Summit to further Victorian and local government collaboration in October this year. One way we will collaborate with local government is to work with them to upgrade street lighting infrastructure with low carbon technologies.”