Council
9 August, 2024
Trees to help offset carbon emissions
MORE than 26,000 new trees will be planted across Moyne Shire thanks to the latest round of council’s Community Carbon Offset Program.
Early last week councillors approved more than $73,000 in grants to assist with planting of trees on public and private land.
Mayor Cr Ian Smith said the program had been running since 2010 as a way to offset emissions from council’s light fleet.
“We started the program in 2010 and more than 73,000 new trees have already been planted in every corner of the shire,” Cr Smith said.
“That equates to about 14,660 tonnes of non-verified carbon offsets over the seedlings’ lifespan.
“These new plantings will provide a further 5,200 tonnes, taking the program’s grand total to just under 20,000 tonnes of non-verified carbon offsets over the seedlings’ lifespan.”
Cr Smith said the quality of projects was outstanding, with applicants considering biodiversity and habitat connectivity in addition to offsetting carbon, and that the project was a practical way to offset carbon emissions.
“It’s a really simple program that delivers big benefits across a range of areas,” Cr Smith said.
“Not only does it help offset carbon emissions, but it helps create habitat for fauna and increases biodiversity across the shire.
“I’m pleased to be able to award these grants and look forward to seeing these trees thrive and grow.”
Public land funding was provided to several groups across the shire including the Hopkins Falls Landcare Group, Lake Cartcarrong Commitee of Management and the Port Fairy to Warrnambool Rail Trail.
Private land funding was provided to property owners in and around Laang, Mailors Flat, Minjah, Nirranda, Panmure, Port Fairy, Rosebrook, Toolong, Warrong and Woolsthorpe.
