Topics at GreenDrinks fluctuated between sunscreen, beer and a range of other random topics.
However specific to the topic of the evening, it was noted that we needed to review where emissions are coming from in the ACT (heating and transport) and that the ACT has a relatively high disposable income which could be used to offset emissions as a worse case scenario.
Reference: Pitt & Sherry, ACT Greenhouse Gas Inventory Series, 2009Key points of discussion about how we could reach a 40% reduction target in emissions in Canberra included:
ENERGY REDUCTION
- Utilise the HEAT (Home Energy Advice Team) program - $30-40
- Switch to Greenpower and have formal certification of 100% Greenpower with letterheads and a 'tick logo' similar to the Heart Foundation
- Identify cheap technologies that government can purchase and deploy for example: smart powerboards, sensors, smart grid, smart meters, etc.
- Add gas to Watson and areas that do not currently have it or have a part solar rebate specifically for non-gas reticulated areas
- Invest in wind turbines
- Sub-division controls and stricter new building controls
- More legislation - ban black roofs, 7-star housing
- Encourage better design, educate future generations and work with indigenous
- Go nuclear
- Utility scale storage - pumped air or hydro
- Diversify Canberra
- Store/keep food at home
- Employers ensure cyclists are safe through insurance schemes
- Local waste cooking oil bio-diesel facility with compulsory recycling of restaurant oils, etc.
- Organic waste collection
- Eat less cabbage
www.love40percent.org
www.heat.net.au
www.yourhome.gov.au
www.thetenproject.com
