Climate Change Framework Update Presented to Gore District Council
The Southland Climate Change Working Group Regional Framework for Action update was presented to the Gore District Council by Regional Climate Change Working Group co-chairman Phil Morrison. The report explores strategies and aspirations for regions moving forward regarding climate change, including an outline for leadership, science, planning for the future and reduction of carbon footprint.
- Key Components of the Framework
- Adaptation Process for Climate Change
- Leadership and Planning for the Future
- Reducing Carbon Footprint
The framework will provide a process to continue action for climate change, which will be adapted alongside the long-term plans every three years. This implies that the framework is designed to be flexible and responsive to changing circumstances.
A Divided Council: Councillors Weigh In
The presentation of the report sparked a lively discussion among the councillors, with some expressing concerns about the potential impact on the district.
“We’re not the only actors responding to climate change. Industry is responding, primary producers are exploring ways to reduce emissions, and everyone has a part to play.”
— Phil Morrison, Regional Climate Change Working Group co-chairman
Cr Andy Fraser expressed concerns over driving away potential business and turning people away from the district, while Cr Glenys Dickson expressed concern with creating policy over climate, especially considering how intertwined the Gore district was with the rural sector.
- Councilors’ Concerns
- Impact on Rural Sectors
- Concerns about Policy Creation
Cr John Gardyne said he felt as though agriculture was being pegged as a dirty deed, and pointed to how important farming was for the sector.
- Importance of Farming
- Concerns about the Role of Agriculture
Crs Fraser, Joe Stringer, Gardyne, and Stewart MacDonell subsequently voted against the motion to receive the report.
A Call for Co-operation and Innovation
Despite the concerns expressed by some councillors, Phil Morrison emphasized the importance of co-operation and innovation in addressing climate change. “We need to work together and think creatively to find solutions to this complex issue.”
— Phil Morrison, Regional Climate Change Working Group co-chairman
Challenges and Opportunities
The debate at Gore District Council highlights the challenges and opportunities that come with addressing climate change. The council’s decision to reject the report highlights the need for further discussion and consideration of the potential impact of the framework on the district.
Conclusion
The debate at Gore District Council serves as a reminder that addressing climate change requires a nuanced and multifaceted approach. The importance of co-operation, innovation, and flexibility cannot be overstated. As the region moves forward, it is essential that all stakeholders, including local government, industry, and the rural sector, work together to find solutions to this complex issue.
