City of Burnside

In making a commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, Council is demonstrating its desire to move Burnside towards a more sustainable future, that aims to provide greater environmental, social and economic benefits for everyone," said Mayor Wendy Greiner.

Energy use is one of the largest sources of greenhouse emissions associated with Council and community activities. By reviewing energy consumption patterns and developing and implementing a blend of targeted actions to reduce consumption levels, Council will realise its stated greenhouse gas reduction goal as well as setting an exemplary example for the community to follow.

A word from the Mayor

Actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions

Community

Save Water and Power (SWaP) show for the community - a theatrical performance for the community about saving water and power. Participants were offered the opportunity to purchase an indoor kit, outdoor kit and audit kit at a reduced rate. This was implemented in conjunction with other metropolitan Adelaide Councils.
Split Bin (50% waste and 50% recycling) and Green Waste Recycling for community.
Home Energy Self Audit Kits available for borrowing through library.
Solar and Renewable Energy Information session for residents.
Production of Sustainable Home brochure.
A questionnaire and postcard sent to all Burnside households (18,000) containing energy efficiency and greenhouse information yielded 880 requests from residents seeking further information.
Promotion of the Residential Solar Hot Water Rebate Program and the Photovoltaic Rebate Program.

Travel

Progressively converted corporate light vehicle fleet to dedicated LPG/dual fuel systems.
Investigation of alternative fuels for heavy vehicles and plant.

Corporate

Energy audits undertaken at high energy use facilities (Burnside Civic Centre and Swimming Centre) to identify opportunities for reducing energy consumption.
Lighting retrofit undertaken at Civic Centre and energy efficient lighting installed in the redeveloped Burnside Library.
Implementation of a Building Management System for library and civic centre to control air conditioning efficiencies.
Installation of solar blankets on pools at Burnside Swimming Centre.
Activation of Energy Star compliant equipment.
Purchase of GreenPower for all Council buildings and street lighting.
Energy efficient street lighting trial
Implementation of a corporate waste management system.
Civic Centre redevelopment - installation of 207 individual solar panels generating 49 kWh of electricity per day, use of a natural ventilation system with an economy cycle and double glazing of windows and south facing "saw tooth" roof to maximise thermal efficiency and natural lighting.

Future greenhouse abatement actions

Council is committed to pursuing the following potential abatement projects:

Further energy efficiency upgrades of Council buildings.
Potential to retrofit other community centres with grid connect solar system to help offset energy use.
Lobbying for changes to more energy-efficient street lighting;
An ongoing environmental education awareness program on recycling and waste minimisation and the reduction of energy use within the home;
Encourage the community to purchase renewable power such as GreenPower;
Improve monitoring of energy use and emissions data;
Investigate feasibility of Council administration becoming carbon neutral; and
Increase GreenPower purchase for Council buildings and street lighting.