Auckland Council’s three-day Climate Symposium opened this morning with a minute’s silence in respect for our Muslim communities following Friday’s tragic terror attacks in Christchurch.
Councillor Penny Hulse, chair of council’s Environment and Community Committee spoke about the hope that started on Friday when over 1.5 million children around the world marched for climate action.
“We heard the global call from our young people to act to save our planet. By Friday afternoon, New Zealand quickly realised that we needed to act to save ourselves – from discrimination, intolerance and racism.”
“Today as we gather to discuss action on climate change, I call on you all to use this sentiment to act for good in every aspect of our society. To be resolute and act to create a better future for our children, for Auckland and New Zealand.”
“Auckland is leading the way in responding to climate change in New Zealand, but important decisions must be made for Auckland to be more resilient to the effects of climate change."
“Tackling the causes of climate change and planning for the impact on our communities should be top of mind for all councils in New Zealand.”
“We owe it to our communities and future generations to make brave decisions, which need to be based on good information. This is what the Climate Symposium and an action plan for Auckland is all about.”
The Climate Symposium brings together international and national climate and resilience experts who will work alongside Auckland leaders and regional stakeholders to discuss and plan development of a Climate Action Plan for Auckland.
Auckland’s Climate Action Plan
John Mauro, Auckland Council’s Chief Sustainability Officer, explains that Auckland’s Climate Action Plan is being developed in recognition of the accelerated emissions reduction required to ensure temperatures do not rise by more than 1.5 degrees Celsius. He stresses that our region must work together to be prepare for climate change impacts of the future.
Mr Mauro says that Auckland’s future relies on collective action on climate change.
“We all need to work together. We all benefit when our society and people become more resilient, more equitable, more prosperous and healthier.“
“Taking decisive action won’t always be easy – it will require some tough conversations and difficult decisions.”
“We must take action. Auckland must succeed for New Zealand to succeed. With courage, commitment and collaboration, we can shape Auckland’s pathway to a zero carbon, climate-resilient future that’s better for everyone.”
The Climate Symposium will wrap on Wednesday with a closing address by the Hon James Shaw, Minister for Climate Change.
Day one of the Climate Symposium will be livestreamed on council live.
Then visit climateAKL.nz to join the ongoing conversation.
