County of Brant announced the development of its comprehensive Climate Action Plan, a corporate strategic initiative aimed at addressing the challenges posed by climate change on Monday, July 22, 2024.
This plan will guide the County toward a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future by supporting smart actions that meet the needs and priorities of the diverse community.
“In the County of Brant, we are committed to taking proactive steps to protect our environment and ensure a sustainable future for our residents,” said David Bailey, Mayor for the County of Brant. “The development of this Climate Action Plan is a testament to our dedication to environmental stewardship and community well-being.”
Climate change poses significant challenges for the County of Brant, affecting both the natural environment and the community’s quality of life. In the County, the effects of climate change are many, including: heavier and unpredictable rainfall, more extreme weather, droughts, heatwaves, and flooding. Rising temperatures can disrupt agriculture, greatly impacting our local farmers, damage infrastructure and increase the risk of flooding. These changes threaten local ecosystems, water supplies, and biodiversity.
Developing a Climate Action Plan will help the County build on climate action successes to date, including: tree planting initiatives, investing in renewables, preparing for extreme weather emergencies, and more.
“Implementing a robust Climate Action Plan will not only help mitigate the impacts of climate change but also bring substantial benefits to our community,” said Adam Crozier, Director of Corporate Strategy for County of Brant. “These include improved public health, economic opportunities, and enhanced quality of life. Our response to climate change is not just about reducing emissions; it’s about building a resilient and thriving community for generations to come.”
Continuing to take action against climate challenges through the Climate Action Plan, can bring numerous benefits to the County of Brant and its residents, such as, improving air quality and public health by reducing greenhouse gas emissions; enhancing resilience and preparedness for extreme weather events to protect infrastructure and reduce recovery costs; promoting sustainable agriculture to ensure food security and support local farmers; and protecting natural resources and biodiversity to maintain ecosystem services vital for clean water, fertile soil, and recreational opportunities.
The County of Brant is inviting all residents and community partners to participate in the development of the Climate Action Plan. Visit the Engage Brant website at www.EngageBrant.ca/ClimateActionPlan to learn more about the project and share feedback through an online survey, provide comments and questions about the plan, or attend one of the pop-up events. Paper copies of the survey are also available at County of Brant Customer Service Offices and for those that prefer, the survey can also be completed over the phone by calling 1.855.44BRANT (1.855.442.7268) until Friday, August 30 at 4:30 pm.
