‘Million Trees Program’. Community volunteers take part in planting activities as part of National Tree Day and World Environment Day. The Million Trees Program has helped with growing native plants along parts of the River Torrens to improve the health of the river and restore habitats, with over 20,000 plants having been planted by community members. Keeping it clean A clean city is a city that people want to visit and live in. Adelaide City Council held a public cleanup at Ellis Park / Tambawodli on West Terrace in the city as part of Clean Up Australia Day and has proudly supported the event since 2004. “Clean Up Australia Day not only raises awareness about litter reduction and recycling but builds community pride. It’s the perfect opportunity for everyone to come together and do our bit for our local parks and waterways,” Stephen said. Over the last year Council has extended its commitment to recycling initiatives and provides a kerbside three-bin waste and recycling collection service for residents and small businesses. A sustainable vision for the future Adelaide City Council’s vision is for a city that is vibrant, populous and sustainable and builds upon Adelaide’s heritage and lifestyle. The Environmental Sustainability Strategy 2009-2012 sets out goals and actions for a sustainable city in the areas of climate change, water, waste and biodiversity. Council’s Carbon Neutral Action Plan sets a target to reduce carbon emissions from Council’s own operations by 60 per cent by 2012. To achieve this target, Council has invested $1.3 million per annum for three years in projects that will improve energy efficiency, generate renewable or low-emission energy at Council facilities, and procure renewable energy. Excitingly, projects implemented to date have seen Council reach its 60 per cent carbon reduction ahead of schedule. To date, Council has reduced its carbon emissions by 61 per cent compared to 1994 levels; that’s the same emissions as 4,900 cars taken off the road for a year. “Council is committed to achieving significant and long-term changes to the way it and the city operates to protect its natural environment and reduce its carbon emissions, mains water use and waste generation,” Stephen said.
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