Blue Mountains City Council's Response to the Energy and Water Challenge
Blue Mountains City Council is committed to improving its energy and water performance and has taken a strategic management approach to consolidate all energy and water plans, strategies and processes.
As the Council operates from numerous buildings and provides various cultural, recreational, leisure, sport and commercial facilities, the effective management of water and energy use has substantial impact on the Council's environmental and financial performance.
A recent resolution of the Council to purchase 10% accredited Green Power will offset approximately 485 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year.
The Council is taking a proactive approach in minimising water and energy waste had has already invested in monitoring and control infrastructure within some of the major buildings. Volunteers have been recruited across the organisation to assist in the implementation of the Energy and Water Management system, specifically to communicate directly with staff and to support sustainable changes at work sites.
Projects planned for 2008-2009 include:
- Investigation of the potential to use solar power at the Katoomba Waste Management Facility in conjunction with the proposed upgrade and construction works.
- Installation of water tanks in conjunction with the Katoomba Waste Management Facility upgrade works.
- Installation of pool blankets for the 25 metre and learners pools at Springwood Aquatic Centre.
- Recycling of backwash water at the Katoomba, Lawson and Glenbrook Aquatic Centres.
- Investigation of the installation of solar panels on the Katoomba Headquarters building.
For more information about energy and water initiatives, please contact the Council's Sustainability Coordinator on 4780 5451.
Click here to view the Council's Energy and Water Strategy adopted by the Council on 11 December 2007.
This item was posted in June 2008.