CO2 first ‘challenge’

JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
Geelong could save $60 million reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 1.3 million tonnes, according to an Australian-first low carbon plan for the region.
The plan says greenhouse gas emissions could be reduced six per cent by 2020 at “relatively” low cost.
But the proponents concede they face a challenge convincing businesses to implement the plan.
Geelong organisations have signed a covenant including the plan as part of a Future Proofing Geelong initiative.
ClimateWorks Australia executive director Anna Skarbek said the plan would target local ambassador businesses to demonstrate potential savings.
“Under the plan we will be able to offer new finance on low-emissions business equipment with a reduced lease cost as a result,” she said.
“We will be able to identify businesses that meet green-loan criteria with lower banking costs.”
Ms Skarbek said she expected a “handful” of businesses on board within months.
“All this can be achieved through a range of targeted actions using existing technology and without changing the business mix or making significant lifestyle changes.
“Geelong has taken a leadership position in being the first city in Australia to develop a regional low carbon growth plan for building an economy-wide low carbon future.”
The sustainability covenant signatories include Environmental Protection Authority, City of Greater Geelong, Geelong Manufacturing Council, the city’s Chamber of Commerce, Committee for Geelong, Barwon Water and Deakin University.
Alcoa community relations manager Brendan Foran said the plan demonstrated great leadership but was “not without its challenges”.
“Geelong is a carbon-sensitive economic community and it is important to have road maps like this,” he said.
“Alcoa has already reduced its direct emissions by 60 per cent since 1990 but it’s difficult for us to make any further commitment until we know what’s happening with the carbon price.”