The Climate Council’s Cities Power Partnership program is Australia’s largest network of local councils leading the way to a thriving, zero emissions future. In just four years, membership has swelled to more than 150 councils that represent almost 60 per cent of Australia’s population.

Glen Eira Mayor Cr Margaret Esakoff said that joining the Cities Power Partnership was an important step to kick-starting local climate projects.

“We have taken the pledge to tackle climate change in our own community as part of the Cities Power Partnership,” she said.

“We’ve heard loud and clear from residents and ratepayers that meaningful action on climate is what they want.

“We’re proud to join the hundreds of shires, towns and cities across Australia that are cutting greenhouse gas pollution, switching to clean energy and building resilient communities.”

Councils taking part in the Cities Power Partnership pledge five actions to tackle climate change locally, from ramping up renewable energy through to planning sustainable transport systems.

Some of the innovative projects councils are taking part in include transitioning council fleets to electric vehicles, installing solar battery systems in thousands of homes and businesses, and even spearheading Australia’s first carbon-neutral kindergarten.

Cities Power Partnership acting director Dr Portia Odell welcomed Council to the partnership and commended them for taking positive action on climate change.

“I would like to congratulate Glen Eira City Council on joining the local climate leaders in the Cities Power Partnership,” Dr Odell said.

“Since the program’s inception, Cities Power Partnership councils have launched more than 780 climate projects. I’m looking forward to seeing what Glen Eira will bring to the Cities Power Partnership.”