Outcome Two: Leadership Hautūtanga

Implement targeted investments and initiatives to reduce Council greenhouse gas (GHG) scope 1 (direct) and scope 2 (indirect purchased electricity) emissions by transitioning to cleaner energy sources and aligning future investment priorities with long-term emissions reduction goals. 

Embed climate and biodiversity considerations into governance, decisionmaking, and organisational development.

Develop a programme of work to give effect to the National Policy Statement for Indigenous Biodiversity (NPS-IB).

Integrate best-practice sustainability standards into Council procurement processes. Ensure purchasing decisions are aligned with emissions reduction, sustainability, waste minimisation, and social development objectives of Council. 

Undertake organisational greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reporting and achieve annual carbon reduction certification through independent third-party auditing, in accordance with ISO 14064-1:2018.

Undertake district-level GHG reporting to track emissions trends, measure progress toward reduction targets, and inform coordinated climate action planning across the district.

Undertake a climate scenario analysis in line with recognised frameworks e.g. Aotearoa New Zealand Climate Standards (NZCS) to help Council evaluate a range of plausible climate futures, assess district-wide resilience, and plan for emerging risks and opportunities.

Develop a robust climate risk assessment and reporting framework that is aligned with national and international best practices. As climate change impacts intensify across Aotearoa, Council must understand and proactively manage climate-related risks to the district while identifying opportunities for adaptation and resilience.

Conduct a comprehensive review of Council’s insurance strategy to ensure adequate coverage for severe weather events and climate-related risks. A proactive, strategic approach to insurance will enhance Council’s ability to manage climate-related financial risks and build long-term resilience.