Friday 5th February 2021 , Welcome to the first edition of Yellow Box Environment News for 2021! We hope that you had a relaxing break over summer and that your year is off to a good start. 2021 sees great potential for pushing a progressive environmental agenda in the ACT. Environmental issues are well represented in the Legislative Assembly - with four cabinet Ministers having direct oversight for climate change and/or environment portfolios. The Chief Minister is also the Minister for Climate Action, providing an opportunity to integrate our climate response right across the ACT Government. We will be working hard to protect and enhance local biodiversity, including at the Lawson north grasslands. We will advocate for a more sustainable Canberra with particular focus on driving greenhouse emissions down by promoting active transport, electric vehicles and switching off gas. We will advocate for bold government action phasing out single-use plastics, and work with business and government to start a conversation about growing Canberra’s circular economy. And we will advocate for a planning system that builds an urban environment that’s climate-ready, supporting the community and biodiversity. Today, the Board and staff are excited to unveil a fresh new logo that will help extend our passion for sustainability and the environment to new audiences across the ACT community. While our look is changing to better represent who we are and the issues we care about, we are steadfast in our core values. Professional, natural and vibrant, the new identity welcomes people from all walks of life to engage with our organisation. We look forward to having your support in 2021 as we advocate for a genuinely sustainable future here in the ACT. Warm regards, Helen Oakey Executive Director |