SIMON Corbell has announced a framework for the ACT Government achieving carbon neutrality in its own operations by 2020.

“The ACT Government contributes 5% of the territory’s greenhouse gas emissions and we intend to lead by example, reducing our emissions and achieving carbon neutrality across all government operations and services by 2020,” Simon said.

“In fact we have already invested $4.6 million in initiatives for energy and greenhouse gas reduction projects across ACT Government sites via the Carbon Neutral Government Fund since December 2012.

“Our first step will be to track the energy performance of government buildings by measuring, monitoring and reporting on our greenhouse gas emissions using the ACT Government Enterprise Sustainability Platform. This platform provides site-by-site energy use data across the entire ACT Government.

“We will also minimise our carbon footprint by implementing mitigation measures with a focus on increasing energy efficiency.”

The ACT Government has employed two energy efficiency officers to assist directorates in reducing their buildings’ energy consumption. For example, changing the programming of Belconnen Library’s heating and cooling system has led to a 29 per cent reduction in electricity consumption and a 30 per cent reduction in natural gas consumption at the facility.

In addition, the ACTSmart Government Energy and Water Program provides directorates with tailored energy and water efficiency advice and assistance. As of June this year the program had comprehensively assessed more than 107,000 square metres of ACT Government floor space across 53 individual sites.

More information on the framework is available at www.environment.act.gov.au

Information on ACTSmart programs is available at www.actsmart.act.gov.au