The Tasmanian Government is calling for public submissions on a new issues paper that examines climate change adaptation measures in the state.

 

State Minister for Climate Change, Cassy O’Conner, said the feedback from the paper would help the Tasmanian Government form the next Climate Action Plan.

 

Through the Climate Change in Tasmania - Issues Paper, we want to hear from business, industry, community groups and other stakeholders on what they see as the key issues, priorities, risks and opportunities for us to adapt to climate change,” Ms O’Conner said.

 

"While we must continue to accept the moral responsibility to bring down our greenhouse gas emissions for a safer climate, there is also an imperative to prepare, plan and take action to adapt to the global changes ahead."

 

"As a connected and decent society, with plenty of innovative and practical thinkers among us, Tasmania is well equipped to respond to climate change."

 

Ms O'Connor said the Issues Paper covered six areas where action to adapt to climate change is likely to be needed:

  • Human settlements and infrastructure;
  • Natural systems;
  • Water management;
  • Industry sectors;
  • Natural hazards; and
  • Human health and vulnerable communities.

 

"The feedback we receive in response to this paper will be instrumental in shaping our 2020 Climate Action Plan, which is due to be released next year."

 

Ms O'Connor said the Issues Paper is available from the Department of Premier and Cabinet's Tasmanian Climate Change Office website at http://www.dpac.tas.gov.au/divisions/climatechange/adapting/adapting_to_climate_change_in_tasmania

 

Written feedback on the Issues Paper must be received by Friday 16 November 2012.  Submissions can be sent electronically to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or mailed to Tasmanian Climate Change Office, Department of Premier and Cabinet, GPO Box 123, Hobart, Tasmania, 7001.

 

Written submissions will be published on the Tasmanian Climate Change Office's website, unless the submission indicates otherwise.