Located on the coast of southeast Tasmania, Clarence City Council is in the process of finalising a nation leading study assessing the impacts of climate change on its coastal areas. The study will assist councils across Australia to understand their vulnerability to sea level rise associated with global warming and will also help them to prepare for potential impacts.
Clarence is the only Tasmanian council to be involved in one of six national projects through the Australian Government Department of Climate Change’s National Climate Change Adaptation Program.
Council’s Group Manager Asset Management, John Stevens, said the project, which examines the social, economic and environmental impacts on Clarence, is unique as it is the only study focused on one Local Government area.
“By combining the study’s findings with Council’s own knowledge and risk management experience, we will be able to advance the thinking on the impacts of climate change and what will be needed for communities to respond,” he said. “Clarence’s low lying coastal areas have always been exposed to storm surges, flood and erosion risks, but coupled with the likelihood of more frequent severe storms from climate change, if left unmanaged, the potential for damage will become greater.”
John Stevens said Council understands how important coastal areas are to Clarence, and particularly to residents who enjoy the lifestyle benefits of living near the coast.
“Council is working to ensure the community can continue to enjoy its coastline as sea level rise brings changes to these areas,” he said. “In undertaking the assessment, we are working closely with the State and Federal Governments, as well as the CSIRO and others, to identify adaptive management options. These solutions may encompass physical options, such as onshore and offshore works, as well as regulatory alternatives, including protection of vulnerable areas through planning scheme initiatives.”
Clarence Mayor, Alderman Jock Campbell, said Council considers the community’s input to be vital and will listen and respond to all concerns and possible solutions.
“Council will actively and openly inform and consult with the community regarding the potential effects of climate change, including possible responses to identified risks, now and in the future,” he said.
Alderman Campbell said regardless of people’s views on climate change, the fact is that sea levels have risen in the past and are projected to rise at a faster rate in the future.
“In the longer term, climate change will affect all communities in one way or another, so we believe it’s better to let the community know the issues and work with them rather than ignore the potential risks,” he said.
Council expects the climate change study to be finalised in coming months.
The project is funded by the Federal Department of Climate Change, and the Tasmanian State Emergency Service, through the Tasmanian Risk Mitigation Program.
For further information contact John Stevens on
(03) 6245 8624.
