Residents and the environment are the big winners today as Randwick, Waverley and Woollahra councils team up to urge councils across the country to reduce carbon emissions and fuel and energy consumption by at least 10 per cent.
The mayors of Woollahra, Waverley and Randwick councils met with Tina Jackson (Chair and Co-Founder, Do Something!) today to sign a joint letter addressed to every local council across Australia inviting them to join the 10% Challenge.
"We've all noticed the rising cost of energy and fuel, both at home and as an organisation. Being more efficient and smarter in how we use energy saves money that we can pass on to our ratepayers," said Randwick Mayor, Cr Scott Nash.
"Randwick, Waverley and Woollahra councils are at the forefront of environmental action, and we're proud to be showing leadership to our community in this critical area."
"Local government is closely connected to its communities; we are increasingly aware of the risks and challenges facing us from an uncertain climate along with the increasing costs of energy and fuel," said Woollahra Mayor, Cr Susan Wynne.
"It's important that we take these matters seriously to safeguard our future."
The 10% Challenge is about becoming part of the national drive to make Australia more energy efficient and to reduce Australia's carbon footprint. Go online to register, or get some tips on saving energy.
"We've taken a strong lead on making energy savings and reducing emissions, and we're now extending that invitation to every other local council," said Waverley Mayor John Wakefield.
"It's something everyone can do; we'd also like to invite our residents and businesses across the eastern suburbs to join us in the 10% Challenge."
The 10% Challenge is being run by Do Something! in association with CHOICE. The 10% Challenge was initiated by Do Something's Managing Director, Jon Dee. Jon was NSW Australian of the Year for 2010 and co-founded Do something! with Pat Cash of Planet Ark.
Media enquiries:
Woollahra: Justine Henderson 02 9391 7141
Waverley: Trish Tweedie 02 9369 8125
Randwick: Katie Moses 0420 277 567
Date published: 1 February 2012