Brisbane City Council Climate Change & Energy Taskforce

Maunsell guides Brisbane in facing-up to climate change and peak oil

On March 12, 2007, Brisbane City Council’s Climate Change and Energy Taskforce submitted its report ‘A Call for Action’ to Civic Cabinet.

The report surveyed the challenges that Brisbane would face as a result of climate change and peak oil, and in cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

Maunsell Principal Consultant – Sustainability, Scott Losee, was a member of the four person taskforce, with Maunsell commissioned to write the final report for the Taskforce.

This appointment recognised Maunsell’s cutting-edge capability in advising clients on the implications of these global issues for their organisations.

The report made 31 recommendations and numerous detailed sub-recommendations that will provide the Council with a basis for its response to climate change and peak oil.

The Taskforce aimed to challenge conventional thinking and present a bold vision for the future of Brisbane.

A stretch goal of zero net greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 for the City of Brisbane was one of the Taskforce’s key recommendations.

Examples of the many other recommended actions include:

• Solar and wind electricity generation in prominent locations
• Detailed review of what climate change will mean for infrastructure
• Drought-proofing the city
• An umbrella public education program and behaviour change messages
• Immediate changes to land use planning
• Enhanced support for public transport, walking and cycling
• A summit on air-conditioning.

Professor Ian Lowe, President of the Australian Conservation Foundation, chaired the Taskforce. He was supported by Jim McKnoulty, President of Greening Australia and John McEvoy, Managing Director of the Peron Group.

Council intends to discuss the Taskforce report with the community and hold a special session of Council to debate its implications.

A copy of the report will be published on the Brisbane City Council's website.