25 May, 2018
Queanbeyan to host NSW Regional Environment Conference 2018
Clean-energy investment and new logging laws will be top of the agenda at the 2018 NSW Regional Environment Conference in Queanbeyan this week.
The 2018 Regional Conference, co-hosted by Climate Action Monaro and the NSW Nature Conservation Council, is an opportunity for conservationists to discuss the most pressing environmental issues for regional communities, to share information, develop new skills, and coordinate campaigns.
“This year the conference will focus on the incredible investment and job opportunities for the southeast of the state presented by the booming clean energy sector and the new threats to our beautiful native forests,” Nature Conservation Council CEO Kate Smolski said.
“This region stands to reap millions of dollars in investment and hundreds of jobs if the state and federal governments create the right incentives.
“Our research has shown that by embracing new clean energy technologies, the region could attract $4.5 billion in investment, create up to 2,100 jobs a year, generate enough electricity to power 2 million homes, and avoid 9.2 million tonnes of carbon pollution.
“It’s a big job but powering the NSW electricity system 100% clean energy is 100% doable. The only thing standing in the way is a lack of leadership from the NSW Government.”
While prospects for clean energy are very positive, the native forests and wildlife, including the koala, are facing new threats.
“The NSW Government is proposing new laws that will significantly intensify the impacts of commercial logging in our public native forests,” Ms Smolski said.
“Hard-fought environmental protections for these forests are being wound back by the Berejiklian government at a time when we should doing more for our endangered native wildlife.
“During the conference, we will be discussing next steps in the campaign to maintain and strengthen existing protections to ensure that iconic animals like the koala are here for future generations.”
CONFERENCE DETAILS
What: NSW Regional Environment Conference
When: Saturday, May 26
Where: Jerrabomberra Community Centre
Cost: $25 (includes lunch)
Bookings: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/2018-regional-conference-tickets-45223043340
Tags
Forests and wildlifeClimate and energy
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