Climate Summit for Local Government

Sept 6-8, 2023 | Melbourne

Shire of Donnybrook Balingup's climate and sustainability commitments

Shire of Donnybrook Balingup is part of the Cities Power Partnership, Australia's largest network of councils leading the way to a sustainable future

  • Traditional Owners Noongar People
  • Member since 2019
  • Population 6,241

Our journey

What council has achieved in the past in energy efficiency, renewable energy, sustainable transport or broader sustainability

The Shire of Donnybrook Balingup (Shire) has undertaken multiple projects with an aim to improve energy efficiency through renewable energy and to promote sustainable transport. Below is a list of some of the Shire’s past projects:

  • Installing a thermal pool blanket at the local recreational pool to improve energy efficiency
  • Installing solar PV system on the Shire administration building as a more sustainable alternative and to reduce energy usage
  • Joining environmental initiatives such as Responsible Cafes, promotes reusable coffee cups
    Installing solar-powered lights in parks
  • Integrating pathways in new designs to promote sustainable transport eg; walking and cycling
  • The Shire has installed 10Kw solar panels at the Recreation Centre taking the facility to 30Kw of solar generation
  • Supporting multiple environmental community groups with eco-tourism
  • Working with local schools to promote sustainability and encourage an environmental focus with tree planting days and rehabilitation programs

What council hopes to achieve in the future in energy efficiency, renewable energy, sustainable transport or broader sustainability

In the long term, the Shire hope to minimise our impact on the environment and promote a sustainable future. The following outlines ways in which the Shire hopes to achieve this:

  • Implement energy-efficient lighting
  • Implement sustainable transport in new designs
  • Encourage cycling through adequate provision of services

What council hopes to gain from being a member of the Cities Power Partnership

Joining the Cites Powers Partnership will provide the Shire with numerous networking opportunities for our Officers to share innovative ideas and solutions on sustainability with other Local Governments.

This partnership also reaffirms the Shire’s commitment to sustainable solutions in working towards climate change mitigation.

Through pledging to undertake five actions as part of the Cities Power Partnership program, these actions will provide the Shire with climate change goals that we will continuously work towards achieving.

Pledges

Council has committed to the following Cities Power Partnership pledges:

Renewable energy
Install renewable energy (solar PV and battery storage) on council buildings.
Energy Efficiency
Roll out energy efficient lighting across the municipality.
Sustainable Transport
Encourage sustainable transport use such as public transport, walking and cycling through council transport planning and design.
Support cycling through provision of adequate cycle lanes, bike parking and end-of-ride facilities.
Work Together and Influence
Set up meetings and attend events to work with other cities on tackling climate change.

Join now and be part of the groundswell of local governments and communities across Australia tackling climate change.