More than 15 community groups from all over Tasmania came together to work out ways to foster a more sustainable future. The Sustainability Gathering was organised by Sustainable Living Tasmania and attended by 40 representatives from as far away as Wynyard and as close as the Material Institute. The attendees came from a passionate sustainability network, full of inspirational stories of community members taking part in local climate action, land care groups, transport advocacy and bulk purchasing arrangements.

Councillor Phil Owen from Brighton Council attended and contributed to the day’s success, saying, “The importance of a local sustainability action is paramount, we are taking on board new and innovative ideas to get people involved in local activities such as tree plantings, clean up days and health and wellbeing gatherings.”

Key ideas emerged that included smart financing mechanisms, greater active transport planning and taking technology opportunities, as well as the need to support those going through climate anxiety. There were several youth representatives who had new ideas on building a sustainability network.

Alison Johnson, Brighton Council Climate Change Officer attended and said, “It is becoming an increasingly pressing issue, we are clearly hearing from younger people through our Sustainability in Schools program that they get the climate action challenges out there and are keen to work on positive solutions.”

“Transport arose as another key issue. Not only is the transport sector responsible for over 40% of community emissions and single passenger vehicle transport, but it is also responsible for the lion’s share of emissions compared to the rail, road freight, ferries, and aviation sectors It is one of the most difficult areas to reduce emissions due to a high dependency on fossil fuels,” Alison said.

More information on active transport options, such as public transport, cycling and walking is available from Sustainable Living Tasmania www.slt.org.au. The Heart Foundation also runs healthy transport initiatives. If you are interested in getting involved in a local sustainability network please get in contact via alison.johnson@brighton.tas.gov.au.