In a response to the challenge of increased population and a higher demand for resources, the Riverina Coalition for Sustainable Energy and Renewables is being established. The big task for the Riverina Coalition is to support existing and planned projects; explore initiatives and opportunities in sustainable development; and establish an awareness and education program that informs the community.
“By working together, the businesses and communities of the region could improve their own performance and collectively attract new opportunities for development,” said Coalition Acting Chairman, Dr Dedee Woodside.“Most importantly, it will contribute to the vitality of the community while ensuring that this development is both sustainable and secure.”
Comprising Local Governments, public and private enterprises across the region, the Coalition was officially launched at the recent SEDA Regional Sustainability Seminar hosted by Carrathool Shire.Participating members and organisations of the Riverina Coalition are being asked to sign a Memorandum of Understanding and commit to a nominal annual membership fee.
The Coalition has a clear and appropriate purpose to build a regional future based on sustainable resources of energy and innovative use of renewable resources, that contribute to the economic and social sustainability of the region and beyond.
Some of the various activities identified by the Coalition include the following.
- Developing new economic opportunities for the region while improving environmental sustainability.
- Developing community wide cross sectorial partnerships.
- Promoting community driven solutions, knowledge and capacity.
- Working collectively and taking advantage of opportunities to build partnerships, harness resources and develop regional solutions.
- Identifying strategies for community cost savings and income generation.
- Showcasing existing and planned examples of renewable energy and sustainable development projects within the Western Riverina.
