BY MATT KEAN
With our State in lockdown, it is easy to think everything has been put on hold but this is far from the case. My Hornsby office is currently closed for visitors but we are answering the communities calls and emails. Please do not hesitate to reach out on 9476 3411 or [email protected] if you have a question or concern regarding the current lockdown
Over the last few months, my work as Minister for Energy and Environment has never been busier. We recently welcomed back Return and Earn to Hornsby, Hawkesbury and Hills LGA with reverse vending machines opening again for eligible containers.
With Hornsby surrounded by National Parks, the community will be pleased to hear I have declared 221 sites as Assets of Intergenerational Significance (AIS) and set a target of zero extinction of species on the NSW National Park estate.
Just as we have a net-zero emissions target, we now also have a target of zero extinction of species on our National Park estate and are aiming to improve and stabilise the status of threatened species. But our plan isn’t just about targets – it’s also about action and that’s why I have made declarations for 221 sites to protect 92 endangered and iconic species.
We also announced the Keeping Cats Safe at Home program to help protect our unique wildlife, with domestic cats estimated to kill around 67 million native mammals, 83 million native reptiles and 80 million native birds in Australia each year.
Under the new initiative, RSPCA NSW will engage 10 urban and regional councils, including Hornsby, to provide education and advice for communities on the importance of containing their cats safely at home.
Finally, for those with or looking to buy an electric car we have announced NSW Electric Vehicle Charging Masterplan which will see the state develop the best fast-charging network in the nation.
The NSW Government will co-fund new ultra-fast charging stations by providing about 1,000 charging bays along key travel routes across the state, putting range anxiety firmly in the rear-view mirror.
We will build EV Super Highways and Commuter Corridors across the State – keeping communities connected and ensuring travellers can reach their destination with ease. We will also ensure all
Government-funded charging stations are powered with renewable energy, helping to reduce emissions to net-zero.
