A74Offset residual Council emissions

What has been done?

• 31/07/2024

  Carbon Offset Policy development and adoption

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  Council's Carbon Offset Policy was adopted in July 2024 and sought to:

  • Enable Council to perform appropriate due diligence when entering and engaging with the carbon offset market so that valid claims can be made.
  • Inform procurement decisions to reduce risk and maximise benefits.

  It acknowledged that while actions to avoid and reduce emissions would remain the focus of Council’s response to the climate and ecological emergency, the offsetting of residual emissions could be an important next step.

  The Policy aimed to play a secondary role in helping Council achieve net zero emissions, by neutralising residual emissions via long-term carbon sequestration projects.

  However, at the Council meeting in October 2025, Council resolved not to procure carbon offsets and to redirect action towards other climate mitigating measures within the City of Kingston.

  Instead of offsetting emissions, Council is investing in direct emission reductions and local greening projects that residents can see and benefit from.