Otago Regional Council (ORC) is seeking feedback from the public on its draft Strategic Climate Action Plan 2024-2034, asking what the community’s vision for a climate-resilient Otago looks like.

The results of a survey on the topic, which is open now, will help shape ORC’s plan for the next decade.

ORC chair Gretchen Robertson said the regional council envisions a low-emissions region which is resilient to the impacts of climate change. 

She is encouraging the public to join in the discussion: “We want to know if our vision aligns with yours.”

“Is a changing climate of concern to you and have greenhouse gas emissions and changing climate influenced your choices when it comes to things like travel, transport, your purchases, business decisions and where you want to live?” 

The draft plan includes actions to help mitigate greenhouse gases and help Otago communities adapt to climate change, Gretchen said.

The plan will be reviewed and updated every three years – or more often if needed.

“Could we be doing more?” Gretchen asked. “Which areas do you think we should focus on?”

Gretchen said the survey would help the council stay “proactive” and “closely aligned” to the community.

“We want to hear from you about your climate action priorities and what you think about the draft plan,” she said. “Your responses will inform the development of the plan and the work we do to implement it.”

Read the draft Strategic Climate Action Plan 2024-2034 and provide your feedback here.

The survey is open until October 6.

Once it has closed, ORC will collate and analyse the feedback, make revisions, and present the final version of the plan to councillors for approval by Christmas.

PHOTO: Wānaka App