South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025

1. Clean energy transformation.................................18

2. Climate smart economy. .........................................21

3. Climate smart agriculture, landscapes and habitats................................................................26

4. Low emissions transport.........................................32

5. Climate smart built and urban environments. ..36

6. Resilient communities..............................................41

7. Government leading by example.........................46 Implementation and reporting. ...............................49 Appendix 1: Action summary...................................50 Abbreviations. ............................................................57 Glossary of terms.......................................................58 References..................................................................60 2 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 3 Executive summary The South Australian government is focused on The South Australian government recognises that practical measures to address climate change that acceleration of South Australia’s response to climate create jobs and growth, protect the environment change will require leadership and action by governments, and support community wellbeing. business and the community. This Action Plan provides a foundation for further engagement with these stakeholders This South Australian Government Climate Change Action on opportunities and measures to deliver a climate smart Plan 2021–2025 (Action Plan) describes government-led South Australia. objectives and actions to help to build a strong, climate smart economy, further reduce greenhouse gas emissions, By implementing the Action Plan, the government is and support South Australia to adapt to a changing climate. expecting to grow climate smart and low emissions industries, create new jobs and attract additional The objectives and actions have been informed by input investment, particularly to regional areas. from the Premier’s Climate Change Council and other experts, including Professor Ross Garnaut. The South Australian government will also remain open to new opportunities and actions arising from stakeholder The Action Plan identifies practical actions that engagement, innovation, advances in technology, and government is taking now, as well as critical work that lays changing market demands. the foundations for further practical action, within and beyond the next five years. The actions will drive progress The Premier’s Climate Change Council, an independent towards the objectives outlined in the Action Plan and advisory body to the South Australian government, will towards the state’s longer term emissions reduction and assist in monitoring and reviewing implementation. adaptation outcomes. The Action Plan is structured into seven focus areas that Implementation of the Action Plan will deliver the include key objectives and government-led actions for five Directions for a Climate Smart South Australia that was years from 2021 to 2025. An overview of the focus areas released in December 2019 and drive further progress and key objectives is provided in Figure 1. The actions are towards statewide goals of reducing greenhouse gas described in the main body of this Plan, with a summary emissions by more than 50% by 2030 and achieving net table (Table A1) presented in Appendix 1. zero emissions by 2050. The government’s work over the next five years will build on a strong base of achievement and existing government initiatives, and some examples and case studies related to this work are described in the Action Plan. 4 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 FOCUS AREAS KEY OBJECTIVES 1 Clean energy transformation Ì Accelerate the renewable energy economy Ì Develop a world-class renewable hydrogen industry Ì Attract and grow businesses and industries powered by renewables 2 Climate smart Ì Support climate smart business innovation, risk management and growth economy Ì Develop a more circular economy Ì Develop a climate smart resources sector Climate smart Ì Support the agriculture sector to adapt, innovate, and 3 reduce net emissions agriculture, Ì Support expansion of carbon farming and blue carbon landscapes and habitats Ì Ensure secure, climate resilient regional and urban water supplies Ì Build the climate resilience of landscapes, habitats and natural resources Ì Support the uptake of low and zero emissions vehicles and fuels 4 Low emissions transport Ì Align transport and urban planning with low emissions transport outcomes Ì Increase the use of public transport and active travel Ì Provide for development and design that is low emissions 5 Climate smart and climate resilient built and urban Ì Accelerate strategic urban greening environments Ì Understand and reduce climate change risks to infrastructure Ì Support communities and businesses to build resilience and adapt 6 Resilient communities Ì Enhance climate change adaptation in emergency management and health services Ì Provide high-quality and accessible climate change science and information 7 Government Ì Embed climate change risk and opportunity into government leading by policy and practice example Ì Accelerate work towards net zero emissions in government Figure 1: Focus areas and key objectives to guide action. South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 5 6 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 Introduction The South Australian government To guide an orderly transition to a low emissions economy, South Australia has set an interim goal to reduce net emissions is committed to building a strong, by more than 50% (from 2005 levels) by 2030. In addition, the climate smart future. government has an ambition to achieve 100% net renewable energy generation by 2030. In 2019, the South Australian government released Directions for a Climate Smart South Australia i , which sets This South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan the government’s agenda for achieving the long-term 2021–2025 (Action Plan) is the next step in the government’s outcomes of a more liveable and resilient state, low agenda to address climate change. The Action Plan sets out emissions jobs and growth, and net zero emissions how the South Australian government will deliver on its climate by 2050. smart policy directions and emissions reduction goals over the next five years. Directions for a Climate Smart South Australia Unlock innovation and economic opportunity The state government will support the development of low emissions and climate smart industries and services in South Australia. Outcomes More liveable Reduce net emissions and resilient, The state government will lead an orderly and socially responsible transition climate smart to a low emissions economy. state Low emissions Build resilience and adapt jobs and growth The state government will support South Australian communities, industries, businesses and the environment to manage risk, harness opportunities, adapt and build resilience to climate change. Net zero emissions by 2050 Provide accessible information The state government will provide high quality, accessible information and build capacity for South Australians to respond to climate related risk and opportunity. Government leading by example The state government will embed climate risk and opportunity into government decision making and investment, and seek to achieve net zero emissions in government. South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 7 South Australia’s climate challenges and opportunities South Australia is well placed to respond It is clear that South Australia is in a good position to: to the challenges and opportunities of • use the state’s abundance of sun, wind and other climate change. natural resources to take advantage of the global demand for low emissions goods and services Our state’s renewable energy leadership, skilled workforce, • achieve its ambition of 100% net renewable energy innovative businesses, strong research sector and generation by 2030 abundant natural resources provide a strong base from which to meet the challenges of climate change and • build on its green brand and reputation for innovation, capture the opportunities from low emissions and climate which attracts new residents and investment resilient products, services and resources. • adapt effectively to a changing climate South Australians are faced with complex challenges due • harness the confidence of business to actively to climate change, including sea level rise, reduced drive the innovation required for the next level average rainfall, intensification of storm events, and more of emissions reduction. frequent and severe heatwaves, bushfires and droughts. These changes are already being felt by South Australia’s Expert advice, including from the renowned climate people, environment and economy. Average temperatures economist Professor Ross Garnaut, has helped inform the across the state are now warmer than in the pastii and are government’s thinking about how to take advantage of South projected to rise to as much as 2.1 degrees Celsius above Australia’s position. the long-term average by 2050iii. Professor Garnaut’s report, South Australia’s Climate Change To minimise the impacts of a changing climate, Challenge and Opportunity, provides a strong endorsement governments, businesses and communities in South of South Australia’s response to climate change and identifies Australia and around the world are reducing emissions, priorities for the next phase of action. transitioning their economies and adapting. This is shifting The report highlights that South Australia can benefit investment and demand towards low emissions and climate economically by building on past success and redoubling resilient goods, services and natural resources and away efforts to leverage valuable opportunities in low emissions from emissions-intensive products. industries, carbon sequestration and adaptation. These South Australia will harness the international, national and opportunities include renewable energy generation and domestic business opportunities, grow its exports and storage, low emissions manufacturing and mining, manage the risks to help drive sustainable economic electrification of transport, increasing carbon storage in the recovery and long-term prosperity for South Australia. land and sea, managing waste, and innovation in climate resilient agriculture. ‘South Australia is better equipped to respond to the challenges and opportunities of climate change than any other Australian state and nearly all of the world’s sub-national jurisdictions.’ Professor Ross Garnaut, September 2020iv. 8 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 South Australia will become hotter and drier, with more frequent and intense extreme weather events Higher More dangerous fire Drier with more time in temperatures weather drought Maximum, minimum and There will be more Autumn and spring average temperatures days of severe and rainfall has decreased by will continue to rise with extreme fire danger up to 20% in some more frequent hot days and longer fire agricultural areas. Further and longer warm spells. seasons. reductions and more time in drought is projected. Warmer and more acidic Rising sea levels More intense heavy oceans rainfall events Oceans are becoming Sea level is rising with a Heavy rainfall events warmer and more projected increase of up will increase in acidic, affecting to 0.8 m by 2100. This intensity, increasing marine life. will increase coastal the risk of flooding. erosion and flooding. Opportunities for South Australia Renewable Low emissions Innovative, Managing energy generation industries climate smart waste (circular and storage and jobs agriculture economy) Business and Attract Increasing Electric and community investment and carbon hydrogen adaptation people to SA storage vehicles and innovation South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 9 Emissions reduction progress and projections South Australia can reduce greenhouse gas Manufacturing (21%) Agriculture (24%) emissions and unlock innovation and Electricity (16%) economic opportunity. South Australia recorded a 32% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from 2005 to 2018 (financial years). The South Australian economy grew by 26% over the Mining (14%) same period (see Figure 2). Much of the state’s emissions reduction has been driven by a Commercial and transition to renewable energy. In 2019, 56.6% of South residential (11%) Australia’s electricity was generated from renewable sourcesv. Transport (29%) Waste (4%) South Australia’s emissions across the key economic sectors in LULUCF (-19%) the 2018 financial year are shown in Figure 3. In that year, South Australia emitted an estimated 24.2 million tonnes in net greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across its economy after taking into account significant offsets from carbon stored in Figure 3: South Australia’s 2018 financial year net greenhouse land and vegetation. gas emissions profilevi. Positive values represent emission sources and negative values represent emission sinks. LULUCF The pathway to net zero emissions by 2050 will require much refers to Land Use, Land Use Change and Forestry 1. more work from governments, business, communities and individuals, across all economic sectors. Only a modest reduction in emissions is projected if no further action is taken (Figure 4). Real GSP (cumulative % change) SA 30% GHG emissions (cumulative % change) 20% Gross state product 20% Per cent change 0% -10% Greenhouse gas emissions -20% -30% -40% -50% 5 6 7 8 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 200 200 200 200 200 201 0 201 201 201 201 201 201 201 201 Financial year Figure 2: Per cent change in gross state product (GSP) compared to greenhouse gas emissions (2005–2018 financial years). 1 The profile represents Scope 1 emissions, with emissions resulting from electricity purchased from the electricity grid and used by other sectors (Scope 2 emissions) included in the electricity sector. 10 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 A 50% reduction in net emissions by 2030 is within • carbon storage in soils and vegetation in terrestrial reach if emissions reduction efforts are scaled up. and coastal environments Major contributions will be needed in low emissions • carbon capture and storage from mining and industry manufacturing and mining, renewable electricity and hydrogen, and in reducing emissions from transport • energy efficiency in industries, businesses and and agriculture. While the scale of change will be households challenging, these sectors have good prospects • low or zero emissions construction materials to expand and benefit economically from reducing and buildings emissions over the next decade. • improved livestock management to reduce methane Some of the key emissions reduction activities to achieve net zero emissions in South Australia include: • waste minimisation and reuse. • fuel switching to renewable electricity and green Government, industries and businesses are increasingly hydrogen across the economy focusing on these activities and additional opportunities will be facilitated under this Action Plan. • low emissions transport, including electric and hydrogen vehicles 40,000 2020 to 2030 2030 to 2040 2040 to 2050 More gradual More rapid increase Continued 35,000 reduction in in emissions steady emissions emissions as new reduction as policy reduction, mechanisms and settings and new with carbon 30,000 technologies are technologies take sequestration Emissions kt CO2-e established. effect. helping to offset 25,000 residual emissions. 20,000 15,000 50% reduction from 2005 levels by 2030 10,000 5000 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045 2050 Year Actual emissions 2005 to 2017 ‘Business as usual’ emissions Path to net zero emissions Figure 4: Emissions reduction pathway to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 compared to business as usual. South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 11 12 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 The next phase of government action South Australia has a strong history of action to Key initiatives include: address climate change and support low emissions economic development. • the world’s largest per capita roll out of home battery storage, and installation of solar and home batteries on The Action Plan builds on this foundation and describes a Housing SA properties as part of South Australia’s comprehensive set of actions that reflects the priorities Virtual Power Plant project identified by Professor Garnaut as well as other areas in • investment in developing new energy storage which the government will accelerate its efforts. technologies, such as the expansion of the Hornsdale Power Reserve (the ‘big battery’) near Jamestown Transition to a low • fast-tracking a new interconnector between South emissions economy Australia and New South Wales for energy security and the export of excess renewable energy • work to align demand with periods of high renewable South Australia is well positioned generation and make the most of distributed energy to continue its transition to a low such as rooftop solar and smart appliances emissions economy. • investment in a statewide electric vehicle charging network, and in smart charging for electric vehicles The South Australian government will support the to reduce power and fuel bills and support the growth of renewable electricity and hydrogen industries, electricity grid. and lay the foundations for electrification of transport in the 2020s. This will support domestic and export growth Work is also underway to establish South Australia as a that will help reduce emissions locally, in other Australian world-class renewable hydrogen supplier for export and states, and overseas. domestic consumption. Renewable energy can help reduce emissions and lower The government will provide for low emissions development costs across a range of economic sectors, including and create the environment to attract and grow low transport, agriculture, building and construction, mining emissions manufacturing and mining. and manufacturing. This can be leveraged into renewed global competitiveness, particularly in energy-intensive The government is also taking steps to reduce South industrial processes. Australia’s non-energy emissions. This includes exploring innovative ways to reduce livestock emissions, Maintaining grid stability and reducing energy costs while encouraging low emissions construction materials in expanding renewable energy generation, storage and government projects, and developing a more circular transmission continues to be a priority for the South economy to reduce emissions from the production and use Australian government. of materials and food, and from waste. 'The international economy is ready to deepen trade and investment with states that embrace the low-emissions transition, and regional South Australia would be one of the biggest beneficiaries from embracing new zero emissions opportunities.' Professor Ross Garnaut, September 2020vii. South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 13 Work is intensifying to support land managers to store carbon • working with local government and other regional in the land, vegetation and marine and coastal environments. organisations to deliver local adaptation actions such This includes pioneering blue carbon initiatives to store as urban heat and tree canopy mapping, coastal hazard carbon in wetlands, mangroves and sea grass meadows, risk mitigation, and sustainable agriculture projects and facilitating carbon capture and storage. • working with primary producers on practical adaptation The South Australian government will continue to take a lead measures, including development of climate resilient by reducing its own emissions. The government’s electricity crops and farming methods. supply contract will secure the construction of a 280 MW The government will also bring greater focus to water solar farm at Cultana near Whyalla and a 100 MW battery near security; support business innovation, risk management and Port Augusta. The government will also invest in energy new business opportunities; adapt emergency management efficiency in government buildings and a transition of the and health services for future demands; plan for more government fleet to electric vehicles. This will reduce resilient built and urban environments; and build resilience in emissions, create jobs and deliver savings to taxpayers. communities, landscapes, habitats and natural resources. These priorities are reflected in this Action Plan. Other areas Support for climate science, research and development, for action will be identified as the South Australian and the provision of high quality climate science and government continues to work with other governments, information to help business and communities understand business and communities to support greater uptake of climate change risk and adapt, will continue to be a priority. mature emissions-reduction technologies and approaches Implementing the Climate Change Science and Knowledge and to facilitate the next wave of innovation. Plan for South Australia will deliver the data and information required to address climate change Adaptation response planning. Adapting to the changing climate is essential for the state’s future prosperity and liveability. Some changes to our climate are now inevitable, regardless of the emissions reduction activities that are implemented. Adapting to this changing climate is essential to ensure our environment, businesses and communities have the resilience to cope with the changes. Adapting well will support the state’s ability to compete globally and meet growing demand for sustainable, climate smart goods and services. South Australia has a long history of adaptation driven by the South Australian government as well as by business, communities, local governments and other organisations. Under this Action Plan, the South Australian government will build on its achievements and deliver practical outcomes that include: • urban greening and water sensitive urban design to create greener, cooler and more liveable neighbourhoods • securing the future of our coastal environment against increased coastal erosion and flooding • reducing risk and building resilience in the face of more frequent and severe bushfires, storms, floods and heatwaves 14 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 15 16 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 The Action Plan The South Australian government The Action Plan integrates other strategic initiatives guiding climate change action, such as South Australia’s Hydrogen is focused on practical measures Action Plan, the Climate Change Science and Knowledge Plan to address climate change. for South Australia, Stronger Together: South Australia’s Disaster Resilience Strategy 2019–2024, South Australia’s The Action Plan identifies practical actions that we are taking Electric Vehicle Action Plan, and the state’s waste strategies. now, as well as critical work that lays the foundations for further practical action, within and beyond the next five years. The South Australian government recognises that acceleration of South Australia’s response to climate Under the Action Plan, the South Australian government change will require leadership and action by governments, will align its climate change response with its plans for industries, businesses and the community. Importantly, economic recovery and growth, particularly with the government will work to create a business environment opportunities to produce low emissions goods and that drives market-led opportunities. services to meet global market demands. The Action Plan provides the foundation for further By delivering the Action Plan, the government is expecting engagement and partnerships outside government. The South to grow low emissions industries, create new jobs and Australian government will remain open to new opportunities attract additional investment, particularly to regional areas. and actions arising from this stakeholder engagement and from innovation and advances in technology. South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 17

1. Clean energy transformation South Australia’s growing renewable electricity sector and developing hydrogen industry support climate smart jobs and growth and will provide the cornerstone for a low emissions economic transition. Key objectives: • Accelerate the renewable energy economy • Develop a world-class renewable hydrogen industry Accelerate the renewable energy economy South Australia has world-class renewable energy energy costs. Likewise, the expertise and new energy resources, including abundant wind resources and technologies developed in South Australia can also be outstanding solar capacity. As a result of government exported interstate and overseas. policies and initiatives, South Australia is now at the forefront of renewable energy innovation. The government will continue to work with industry and energy market operators to get the renewable Renewable energy will support change in other economic electricity supply mix right and to support grid stability sectors, for example by powering electric vehicles, driving and economic growth. low emissions industrial processes such as green steel production, and providing opportunities to switch to low New technologies, markets and opportunities for emissions energy and fuels in the mining, transport, investment by governments and the private sector are building and construction, and domestic sectors. likely to emerge over the next five years. The South Australian government will remain open to these Developing the state’s renewable energy industry provides opportunities and will build on its actions as needed. opportunities for export, attracting investment and growing existing and new businesses. For example, advances in South Australia's transformation to a net zero emissions renewable electricity and hydrogen make our state economy and a national and international exporter of clean increasingly attractive to energy-intensive industries energy could mean achieving a level of renewable energy that seeking to reduce their emissions footprint and their is more than 500% of current local grid demand by 2050. South Australia currently has ... 56.6% renewable energy generation Wind farms (in 2019–2020) generating 40% of Around $20 billion Australia’s wind of renewable energy energy projects in The world’s largest per capita rollout the pipeline of home battery storage Hydrogen production projects underway Large-scale energy storage 1 in 3 homes with rooftop solar and increasing solar uptake by businesses 18 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 Actions 2021–25 1.1. Drive the continued development The government will continue to unlock investment in, and support growth of renewable energy and of, renewable electricity generation and storage, to enable South Australia energy storage to become a 100% net renewable energy generator by 2030. 1.2. Fast-track construction of a new The government is fast-tracking a new interconnector between South South Australia to New South Wales Australia and New South Wales to improve energy security, enable high capacity electricity increased energy export and facilitate the transition to low emissions interconnector energy sources. 1.3. Implement South Australia's The government will implement the critical energy and smart technology Energy Solution actions in South Australia's Energy Solution to allow South Australians to move to secure and affordable 100% net renewable energy. This will allow rooftop solar to increase substantially while addressing grid security and resilience. 1.4. Implement energy The government will implement a range of policies and projects to manage demand management and electricity demand and improve energy efficiency to align with wind and productivity programs solar generation and new modes of energy storage and to reduce costs. This includes the Retailer Energy Productivity Scheme that sets annual targets for energy retailers to deliver energy productivity activities to households and businesses from 2021. 1.5. Increase renewable electricity Renewable energy will be integrated into the Remote Area Energy Supply generation in remote communities Scheme, to reduce diesel consumption and emissions and to ensure a safe, reliable and cost-effective supply is available in remote South Australian towns. CASE STUDY: Bungala Solar Power Project, Port Augusta The Bungala Solar Power Project is located on land owned by the Bungala Aboriginal Corporation near Port Augusta. With capacity of 275 MW, it is one of Australia’s largest solar photovoltaic (PV) projects. Around 1500 people participated in its construction, including around 70 Indigenous participants in an Indigenous training and employment program. South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 19 Develop a world-class renewable hydrogen industry South Australia has the wind and solar resources, and the hydrogen production for export and domestic consumption. infrastructure and skills, to become a world-class renewable Local use of renewable hydrogen in homes, transport and hydrogen supplier. industry will play an important role in helping South Australia achieve its emissions reduction goals. When hydrogen is used as a fuel, it releases no greenhouse gas emissions or air pollutants. Therefore, hydrogen produced using renewable energy provides a zero emissions fuel that can be used for electricity generation, as Some current initiatives: a natural gas replacement, and for road, rail and shipping A landmark hydrogen export study, online transport. Renewable hydrogen can also be used to make modelling tool and prospectus have been low-carbon (green) steel and other products and to produce completed to develop international-scale clean renewable chemicals, such as ammonia for the agricultural hydrogen export. and mining sectors. The government has co-invested in the By 2050, it has been estimated that an Australian hydrogen Australian Hydrogen Centre to drive research industry could contribute $11 billion and 7600 jobs to the and development on hydrogen generation, national economyviii. Many of these jobs could be located in distribution and use. regional areas in South Australia, especially around ports and The government is co-investing in renewable existing industrial clusters where future hydrogen development hydrogen production projects to help establish is most likely to occur. the industry. In 2019 the South Australian government released South Australia's Hydrogen Action Plan to scale up renewable Actions 2021–25 1.6. Implement South Australia’s The government will facilitate investment in hydrogen infrastructure, Hydrogen Action Plan establish a world-class regulatory framework, deepen trade relationships, foster innovation and workforce development, and integrate hydrogen into our energy systems. CASE STUDY: Renewable hydrogen for domestic and industrial use Hydrogen Park South Australia is an $11.4 million demonstration facility, located at the Tonsley Innovation District. The facility currently has the largest electrolyser in Australia and will produce renewable hydrogen to blend with natural gas for supply to more than 700 properties in the nearby suburb of Mitchell Park, and to supply industrial customers. 20 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025

2. Climate smart economy South Australia, particularly regional areas, can prosper by further developing low emissions and climate resilient technologies, industries and businesses. Key objectives: • Attract and grow businesses and industries powered by renewables • Support climate smart business innovation, risk management and growth • Develop a more circular economy • Develop a climate smart resources sector Attract and grow businesses and industries powered by renewables South Australia’s clean energy transformation will make our These factors will benefit a range of industries, including state increasingly attractive to energy-intensive industries steel production, minerals processing, and agriculture and seeking to reduce their emissions footprint. It gives our food production. The capabilities that South Australia state a competitive advantage by reducing electricity costs develops in clean energy technology, skills, training and and supporting positive branding around our low emissions services can also be exported interstate and overseas. society and economy. Actions 2021–25 2.1. Support the growth and attraction The government will provide investment attraction initiatives and policy of businesses and industries settings to encourage investment in, and development of, energy-intensive powered by renewables industries, technology manufacturers and renewable energy services, and enable greater value-adding in other export sectors such as mining, food and agribusiness. CASE STUDY: Regional development driven by renewables Renewable energy has transformed the economic fortunes of the Upper Spencer Gulf region. Steel manufacturing, lead and metal smelting, and mining industries connected to the region are increasingly factoring renewable energy into their operations and planning. In 2020, the region had 817 MW of large-scale renewable and storage projects, with more projects in the pipeline. South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 21 Support climate smart business innovation, risk management and growth South Australian businesses and industries across all sectors, Engagement with business and industry will be undertaken from agriculture and energy, manufacturing and construction, to identify additional opportunities, partnerships and through to insurance and finance, will increasingly need to industry-led actions to manage climate risk, reduce manage the risks and capitalise on the economic emissions and harness new business opportunities. opportunities of climate change to remain competitive. Businesses and industries will need to adapt to the physical impacts on their operations and supply chains Some current initiatives: from a hotter and drier climate and more frequent extreme Innovation districts, such as Lot Fourteen, weather events. They will also need to respond to Tonsley, Waite and Mawson Lakes, support consumers, investors and regulators that are increasingly clean-technology innovation. making decisions that consider how well companies address climate change risk and emissions reduction. The government has partnered with the University of Adelaide to demonstrate and To support a strong, climate smart economy, the South encourage early adoption of new climate smart Australian government will integrate climate change agriculture technologies. considerations into its economic policies, including its Growth State Plan. The Carbon Neutral Adelaide Partner Program supports participating businesses and The government also has an important role in supporting individuals to reduce emissions. industry development and business resilience, including training and skills development and support for innovation and research. 22 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 Actions 2021–25 2.2. Integrate climate smart thinking into Strengthen the integration of climate smart considerations into sector strategies and South government’s work with businesses and industries to ensure sector Australia’s Growth State Plan strategies and the Growth State Plan address climate related economic opportunities and risks. 2.3. Coordinate delivery of climate smart The government will work with targeted industry sectors to identify business engagement partnerships and additional industry-supported initiatives that will help businesses to manage climate risk, reduce emissions and harness new business opportunities. 2.4. Support research and development The Office of the Chief Scientist will collaborate with the Department for to deliver new climate smart Environment and Water and other agencies to support climate smart innovation industry and research collaborations, such as new cooperative research centres and other scalable research capability for South Australia. 2.5. Support the development and The government will provide support for entrepreneurs and startups that commercialisation of innovative produce low emissions and climate adaptation products and services climate smart products and services through the Research, Commercialisation and Startup Fund, the Future Industries Exchanges for Entrepreneurship (FIXE) Strategy and other relevant programs. 2.6. Support development of renewable The government will work with industry to develop training products, skills energy and climate smart industry training and qualifications to meet emerging needs in renewable and climate training products and pathways smart industries. This includes considering opportunities for government subsidised training and building capacity of local training organisations. 2.7. Work with Environment Protection The Environment Protection Authority will assist licensees exposed to Act 1993 licensees to understand climate related risk by reviewing license conditions and supporting climate change risk and liabilities action to improve arrangements for dealing with more frequent extreme and enable adoption of risk weather events. management strategies 2.8. Grow the South Australian water The government will partner with the state’s water sector to build the industry as a local and global supplier capacity to provide new solutions that address water constraints to growth of innovative water solutions across the economy and capture new export and investment opportunities. CASE STUDY: Using biogas to power beef processing Teys, a South Australian beef processor and exporter, is capturing biogas from the anaerobic digestion of wastewater to generate renewable electricity for onsite use at its Naracoorte plant. The project, which was supported by a grant from the South Australian government, has reduced energy costs and carbon emissions and increased site energy security. South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 23 Develop a more circular economy A circular economy, which keeps material resources in use or The government will continue to deliver circular economy ‘circulating’ for as long as possible, provides enormous initiatives that help grow jobs and reduce emissions. potential to improve resource use efficiency, boost jobs and growth and reduce emissions across most economic sectors. Transitioning to a circular economy will maximise the use of Some current initiatives: existing materials, reduce dependence on new raw materials In 2020, South Australia passed legislation to ban and reduce waste. single use plastic products. Green Industries SA estimates that developing a more circular Road upgrades between Regency Road and economy by 2030 could create an additional 25,700 full-time Pym Street have used around 3000 tonnes of jobs and save around 7.7 million tonnes of greenhouse gas Downer's road surfacing material Reconophalt, emissions (measured in carbon dioxide equivalent)ix. containing 2.4 million plastic bags, and around 71,000 used toner cartridges. South Australia is in a unique position to transition to a circular economy as it is a recognised national and international Green Industries SA’s Commercialisation of leader. South Australia leads the nation in container deposit Innovation Program provides grants to stimulate legislation and in banning plastic bags and single use plastic investment in innovative technologies in waste items. The state has the highest rate of diversion from landfill management and the circular economy. of any Australian state or territory and has an exemplary organics recycling industry. Actions 2021–25 2.9. Support business and communities Green Industries SA will work with other government agencies on education, to adopt circular economy practices engagement and incentives to encourage businesses, schools and the community to implement circular economy opportunities and boost sustainable growth and resource security. 2.10. Implement South Australia’s Waste South Australia’s Waste Strategy 2020–2025 outlines a range of actions Strategy 2020–2025 that will help reduce emissions by increasing recycling and resource reuse and reducing methane from landfills. 2.11. Implement South Australia's Food South Australia's Food Waste Strategy will be implemented to capture and Waste Strategy divert 50% of household and business food waste from landfill into higher- value uses, such as compost. This will keep this material circulating back into natural systems and reduce emissions in the form of methane. 2.12. Deliver a stronger regulatory The Environment Protection Authority will establish and implement a range framework to reduce waste and of new and enhanced regulatory measures, such as material flow reporting encourage greater reuse of materials and stockpile controls, to encourage businesses and industries to reduce to support a circular economy waste, improve resource recovery and keep materials in use for longer. CASE STUDY: Circular economy innovation The circular economy can be seen in the work of companies Holla-Fresh and Bio Gro, located in the south-east of South Australia. Horticulture company Holla-Fresh heats its greenhouses using low-cost, renewable energy from pyrolysis of crop and timber wastes. Local company Bio Gro provides the wood residue at no cost. After pyrolysis, biochar (charcoal) is produced, which is collected by Bio Gro before use as a soil improver that helps to store carbon. 24 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 Develop a climate smart resources sector Many resources companies are now exploring ways to The government will engage with the resources sector to improve their sustainability and reduce emissions. Excellence investigate climate change risk, support discovery of in environmental performance that meets investor and social technology minerals and provide a policy and investment expectations can improve efficiency and productivity and framework to facilitate CCS. provide a source of competitive advantage for companies. There are opportunities for the resources sector (and other heavy industries) to reduce emissions, generate carbon Some current initiatives: offsets and improve production through large-scale carbon capture and storage (CCS). CCS enables carbon dioxide from The government is collaborating with OZ Minerals large point sources to be captured and deposited where it and five research and innovation organisations cannot enter the atmosphere, such as in underground to investigate opportunities to optimise electrical geological formations. and fuel demand and integrate renewable energy systems on mine sites. There are also increasing opportunities to supply the minerals required for low emissions technologies, such as solar panels, South Australia has contributed to the development of international standards for batteries, electric vehicles and electronics. The South carbon capture and storage. Australian resources sector is well placed to meet growing demand for copper, magnetite, silver and gold. Economic The government’s Accelerated Discovery benefits can be multiplied by attracting and developing Initiative supports co-funding for the discovery of value-adding industries, such as mineral processing new minerals, including those in demand for low operations that can be powered by renewable energy. emissions technology. Actions 2021–25 2.13. Develop and implement policies to Work will be undertaken with industry to develop and implement policies, facilitate investment in large-scale standards and regulations to facilitate and provide investment incentives for carbon capture and storage carbon capture and storage. The government will promote the potential for carbon capture and storage projects in South Australia. 2.14. Develop projects and strategies to The government will develop and implement projects and strategies that facilitate the discovery of minerals facilitate the discovery in South Australia of minerals that support that support technology and a low technology and a low emissions economy. emissions economy 2.15. Investigate climate change The government will undertake a review to understand climate change regulatory risk that may apply to the hazards and potential risk scenarios, including consideration of resilience minerals sector in South Australia and climate change adaptation, which may apply to the minerals sector in South Australia. CASE STUDY: Moomba carbon capture and storage Santos is working on a project to capture carbon dioxide from its Moomba processing plant and inject it deep underground into depleted gas reservoirs where it can be safely and sustainably stored for millions of years. The Moomba carbon capture and storage project will be the second largest dedicated carbon capture and storage project in the world, targeting the capture of 1.7 million tonnes per year of CO2. South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 25

3. Climate smart agriculture, landscapes and habitats Climate change presents challenges to the sustainability and productivity of agriculture, water resources, natural and urban landscapes, and habitats. It also presents opportunities to capitalise on new markets, build increased resilience and sustain prosperity. Key objectives: • Support the agriculture sector to adapt, innovate, and reduce net emissions • Support expansion of carbon farming and blue carbon • Ensure secure, climate resilient regional and urban water supplies • Build the climate resilience of landscapes, habitats and natural resources Support the agriculture sector to adapt, innovate, and reduce net emissions Food, wine and agribusiness is an important driver of livestock, through feed supplements or other technologies, South Australia’s economy. It is a diverse sector covering can help improve livestock productivity and respond to a primary production, forestry, fishing, aquaculture, processing growing demand for low emissions food. of raw material, and manufacturing of food, beverage and fibre products. Other opportunities exist in using biomass—such as waste from agricultural crops, livestock, wood and wood Adapting effectively as the climate changes and responding processing, and also food waste—to produce soil to market demand for climate smart products will improve improvement products, bioplastics and energy. the sector’s competitive advantage, and contribute to economic growth and regional development. South Australia’s primary producers and agribusinesses are experienced in adapting to a variable climate and market Primary producers and agribusinesses have opportunities to conditions and many already consider long-term climate adapt, diversify and grow, through new technologies and related risk in their business planning and practices. Building farming methods, climate resilient crops and livestock, on this foundation, the government will work with the sector meeting increased demand for low emissions products, and to understand and support opportunities for adaptation, participating in carbon markets. Similarly, increased uptake emissions reduction, carbon farming and new climate smart of renewable energy and more resource-efficient farming growth opportunities. can lower production costs. Agriculture can make a valuable contribution to reducing Some current initiatives: South Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions. Agricultural production contributed 24% of South Australia’s emissions in The South Australian Research and Development the 2018 financial year (Figure 2), with major sources of Institute works with industry to develop climate emissions being cattle, sheep and agricultural soils resilient crops and farming methods, such as (including fertiliser application). helping wine makers to adapt to warmer vintages and assisting grain growers to match maturation Low emissions farming approaches are emerging that can of crops to changing weather patterns. improve productivity and access to new markets and support regional development. For example, carbon farming Climate vulnerability assessments have been that involves improvement of soils, establishment of trees or undertaken for the viticulture, horticulture, annual regeneration of native plant species can improve cropping, livestock and dairy industries in the productivity and can produce carbon credits that may be Mount Lofty Ranges. traded. Similarly, reducing methane production from 26 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 Actions 2021–25 3.1. Identify and develop climate smart The government will work with industry to investigate and support industry aquaculture opportunities development in new aquaculture opportunities, such as new climate resilient fish species and commercial-scale seaweed for feed supplements to reduce livestock methane emissions. 3.2. Identify opportunities for The government will collaborate with industry stakeholders and Regional commercial development and Development Australia Boards to identify and support development of use of biomass opportunities for using biomass—such as agricultural and wood waste—for soil improvement, bioenergy and other industrial uses. 3.3. Support primary producers in The government will engage with primary producers, industry peak bodies adaptation planning, reducing net and key stakeholders on climate related risks and opportunities, provide emissions and identifying economic relevant information and connect them to opportunities that will support opportunities climate resilience, adaptation and net emissions reduction. 3.4. Implement enhanced biosecurity The government will strengthen South Australia’s capability for early surveillance and reporting detection and response to altered pest and disease risks as a result of the changing climate. CASE STUDY: Using seaweed to reduce livestock emissions The South Australian government is working with CH4 Global and the Commonwealth Fisheries Research and Development Corporation to explore commercial production of a species of seaweed that, when processed and added to feed, can reduce livestock methane emissions by 80% or more and reduce feed requirements, with no effect on productivity. South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 27 Support expansion of carbon farming and blue carbon A wealth of carbon farming and blue carbon opportunities work with land managers, farmers, other governments and exist across the state. Increasing carbon stored in researchers to identify and develop the opportunities, vegetation, soils, and marine and coastal environments address barriers to uptake, and increase capacity to attract (‘blue carbon’) and reducing livestock emissions will make investment. a significant contribution to reducing the state’s net emissions. A fifth of South Australia’s total emissions is already offset through carbon stored in vegetation and Some current initiatives: soils on land and in coastal environments. Soil improvement trials undertaken by the Projects that reduce emissions or increase carbon Department of Primary Industries and Regions, sequestration can generate carbon credits that may be such as adding clay to sandy soils, have shown sold to emitters seeking to offset their emissions. The potential to sequester carbon and significantly carbon credits can provide alternative revenue sources for improve productivity. landholders and land managers, including Aboriginal Carbon credits generated from the River Murray communities. Delivering carbon farming and blue carbon Forest established by the state government and projects can generate regional jobs. Greening Australia have been purchased by organisations seeking to offset their carbon Co-benefits can also be significant and include improved emissions. agricultural productivity, sustainable land management, and restoration of natural habitats, including marine and The government has mapped organic carbon coastal environments, which are important for recreational levels for different soil textures, climate zones and commercial fisheries. and agricultural districts, to inform priority areas for future soil carbon projects. To expand South Australia’s carbon farming and blue carbon industries, the South Australian government will Actions 2021–25 3.5. Implement the Blue Carbon The Blue Carbon Strategy for South Australia will deliver practical actions Strategy for South Australia and research to help land managers and investors to establish blue carbon projects to store carbon and protect and restore marine and coastal environments. 3.6. Support uptake of carbon farming The government will develop and implement a Carbon Farming Roadmap to opportunities identify opportunities and remove barriers to uptake of emissions reduction and carbon sequestration opportunities in soils, vegetation, forestry and livestock management. 3.7. Develop carbon sequestration This initiative will facilitate carbon offset opportunities through regeneration opportunities on conservation land and planting of native vegetation on national parks and reserves to offset emissions and enhance conservation outcomes. CASE STUDY: Tidal reconnection for blue carbon The Salt to C project undertaken by the Goyder Institute for Water Research is the first study in Australia to investigate the effects of tidal reconnection of a salt pond for carbon capture. The project found that restoration of salt fields through tidal reconnection leads to a net gain in soil carbon and rapid revegetation. 28 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 Ensure secure, climate resilient regional and urban water supplies Water is the state’s most precious resource, and securing Long-term water security planning for regional and urban suitable regional and urban water supplies is essential for areas will be undertaken in collaboration with local economic growth, critical human needs and adapting to government, primary producers and other stakeholders. The climate change. government is also working with other Australian jurisdictions to improve management of the River Murray and to develop a Climate change impacts on rainfall and stream flows national approach to addressing climate change risk in water combined with increasing demands for water will place resource planning and management. greater pressure on this resource. This makes it important to plan for, manage and develop all potential water resources and consider the water infrastructure needed to secure . Some current initiatives: sustainable supplies into the future. Facilitation of stormwater harvesting and use South Australia is already a leader in using stormwater, means the state’s capacity to harvest wastewater recycling and desalinated water to diversify from stormwater is continually increasing, with 4.5 GL more traditional sources of water. Future opportunities include of stormwater captured and stored for reuse in increasing access to and use of these alternative sources, the 2019 financial year. treating and using lower quality groundwater, developing new SA Water is working with councils and schools supply and storage infrastructure, and improving water use to use sensors and irrigation scheduling efficiency and demand management. software to optimise water use. Implementation The government will ensure that the greater variability in of this technology could allow a 30% increase in water availability as a result of climate change can be the area of irrigated public open space without managed and that sustainable development of all viable additional water use. sources of water to support growth and urban greening is optimised. Integrated management that includes stormwater and drainage systems will also minimise flood risk. Actions 2021–25 3.8. Increase climate resilient water SA Water will expand climate resilient water supply options through the supplies, water reuse and efficient development and delivery of fit-for-purpose water from sustainable sources use of water and innovations in water efficiency. 3.9. Undertake water security planning The government will work with stakeholders and local communities to for priority regional areas develop targeted water security strategies for key water resources or priority growth industries where water demand has potential to exceed supply. Strategies will consider opportunities for new or augmented supplies from all viable water sources and for the use of new water technologies. 3.10. Develop a framework to deliver The government will develop an Integrated Urban Water Management integrated urban water management Framework for all viable urban water sources. The framework will underpin and inform investment decisions management and investment decisions to meet community and economic growth needs in a hotter, drier future. The work will consider urban greening needs and stormwater management to minimise flood risk. CASE STUDY: Leading the way in wastewater recycling Around one third of South Australia’s treated wastewater is used for agriculture and urban parklands. For example, recycled water from the Bolivar wastewater treatment plants is used for high-value intensive food production in the Northern Adelaide Plains, and water from the Glenelg Wastewater Treatment Plant is used to irrigate over 163 hectares of the Adelaide Park Lands. South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 29 Build the climate resilience of landscapes, habitats and natural resources The sustainable management of our landscapes, habitats and best available climate science information and ensure practical natural resources is vital for the survival and growth of our on-ground regional action is coordinated with state-level economy, wellbeing and way of life. strategic directions for resilient landscapes, including the need for climate change mitigation and adaptation. The changing climate will adversely affect vulnerable landscapes, ecosystems and the resources they provide. Sea The South Australian government and regional landscape level rise and more frequent and intense storms will increase boards will continue to work with landholders and land the risk of coastal flooding and erosion. Changes in managers to improve knowledge of how landscapes, temperatures and rainfall patterns and more frequent and ecosystems and biodiversity respond to climate change and to severe bushfires, droughts, storms and floods will alter where support effective management actions. species occur and cause local losses in some species. As a result, ecosystem services such as crop pollination and water quality maintenance may also be altered. Some current initiatives: Increasing habitat resilience and strengthening conservation The Landscape South Australia Act 2019 efforts will be critical to support healthy plants, animals and expressly recognises the significance of climate ecosystems. South Australia has a long history of change in managing landscapes and natural environmental and natural resources management on public resources, including the need for both mitigation and private land from which to build to meet these challenges. and adaptation. South Australia’s protected area system encompasses Projects such as New Life for our Coastal public, private and Aboriginal lands and covers around 30% Environment and Securing the Future of our of the state. Heritage Agreements have been established Coastline address climate change risks by with more than 2800 landholders. The South Australian stabilising beaches, restoring sea grass government is investing significantly in the revitalisation of meadows, and supporting research on the state’s protected area system and the parks and wildlife protecting coastal environments. service to ensure that these natural assets continue to form The government has revitalised Heritage the core of a broader landscape approach to conserving Agreement funding to help landholders and biodiversity and protecting natural habitats against the farmers to conserve and protect native impacts of climate change. vegetation and increase biodiversity. Recent natural resources management reforms have Projects to reinstate more natural flow regimes established regional landscape boards with a strong focus on for Fleurieu Peninsula swamps will help ensure supporting resilient landscapes and sustainable primary the long-term prospects of the wetlands as the production under a changing climate. Regional landscape climate changes. plans and a new state landscape strategy will take into account 30 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 Actions 2021–25 3.11. Develop a climate smart, long-term Work will be undertaken to assess risks to key coastal assets, human coastal strategy settlements and coastal environments under a changing climate and to develop a long-term Coastal Strategy for South Australia. 3.12. Assess the implications of climate Work will be undertaken to identify the critical climate change impacts for change for South Australia’s ecosystems, particularly those affecting conservation and primary ecosystems to inform critical production. This will inform practical adaptation strategies for regional adaptation strategies landscape planning and protected area management. 3.13. Develop and apply a dynamic A Biodiversity Fire Planning Tool, incorporating climate change forecasts, biodiversity fire management will be developed to support the strategic use of fire to maintain biodiversity planning tool for conservation while reducing fuel loads and the risk of bushfires to life and property. The outcomes tool will initially be developed for the Kangaroo Island, and Hills and Fleurieu landscape regions. 3.14. Landscape planning will consider Development of the State Landscape Strategy and Regional Landscape climate change mitigation and Plans will take into account best available climate science and recognise the adaptation for natural resources need for mitigation and adaptation in management of natural resources. and landscapes CASE STUDY: Informing coastal adaptation A new interactive Flood Mapping Tool helps identify and map areas on Eyre Peninsula and the Limestone Coast that may be vulnerable to coastal flooding due to storm surge and/or sea level rise. The tool will be used to inform the most appropriate adaptation strategies, such as avoid, retreat, accommodate or do nothing. The project is a partnership between landscape boards and state and local governments. South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 31

4. Low emissions transport A modern, low emissions transport system will improve productivity, reduce congestion and improve air quality as well as reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Key objectives: • Support the uptake of low and zero emissions vehicles and fuels • Align transport and urban planning with low emissions transport outcomes • Increase the use of public transport and active travel Our transport system plays a fundamental role in supporting transport infrastructure, and these are accounted the state’s economy, our quality of life and the liveability of our for separately. cities and towns. Developing a modern, low emissions transport system will Transport was the largest direct source of emissions for South also improve transport efficiency and productivity and reduce Australia in the 2018 financial year, contributing 29% of total congestion and pollution. Achieving this outcome requires a emissions (Figure 2). Road transport contributes most (87%) combination of behaviour changes and technological of the emissions, with the remainder being from shipping, innovation to shift to low and zero emissions vehicles and railways, aviation and other transport modes. There are also fuels, reduce transport demand and improve transport emissions associated with the construction and operation of efficiency (Figure 5). Avoid Shift Reduce Avoid the need for Shift to lower emissions Reduce emissions from road journeys modes of transport vehicles and fuels Development More Increased Increased Low Electric and More oriented near flexible work use of active use of emissions hydrogen efficient services and locations travel e.g. public public vehicles transport public transport walking and transport transport networks cycling Figure 5: Key elements of a low emissions transport system. Support the uptake of low and zero emissions vehicles and fuels Low and zero emissions vehicles, such as plug-in electric and Battery and hydrogen electric vehicles are likely to be hydrogen-powered vehicles, provide a significant opportunity cheaper to run and maintain, lowering the costs of transport to reduce transport emissions. Global sales of electric for businesses and households. There are economic passenger vehicles are growing as technologies improve, costs opportunities in the manufacture and recycling of batteries, reduce and countries announce plans to ban diesel and petrol electric vehicles and their components, and in low emissions vehicles. The shift to low emissions fuels, including hydrogen, is fuels such as hydrogen. also spreading to heavy transport such as trucks and buses. 32 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 When integrated with electricity networks, the storage The design and management of road and rail transport capacity of electric vehicles, combined with the capability networks, more fuel efficient vehicles, and improved freight to schedule their charging times, can help to stabilise the efficiency (e.g. more efficient driving, and supply chain and load grid during peak demand and across periods of renewable optimisation) will also contribute to lower vehicle emissions. energy generation. South Australia’s Electric Vehicle Action Plan aims to Some current initiatives: reduce barriers to the uptake of battery and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles, while optimising the benefits such In 2020, 53% of the government’s fleet of 6750 as reduced transport costs, improved air quality and less passenger and light commercial vehicles were noise pollution. either low or zero emissions vehicles. Metropolitan rail lines, including Seaford, Tonsley The South Australian government will plan a transition of the and most recently Gawler, are being progressively public transport system to low and zero emissions vehicles, electrified to deliver modern, environmentally informed by investigations and trials of viable hydrogen and/ friendly and efficient train services. or electric technologies, and other low emissions mass transit options. Infrastructure, operational and network requirements The government is investing to accelerate public for further deployment will be assessed. Following the electric vehicle charging infrastructure in South completion of the Gawler Rail Electrification Project, the Australia, and to trial smart charging and grid government will investigate conversion of remaining diesel- integration for a more secure electricity network powered suburban train lines to alternative power sources. and lower transport and electricity costs. Actions 2021–25 4.1. Implement South Australia’s Electric South Australia's Electric Vehicle Action Plan will address key barriers to Vehicle Action Plan electric and hydrogen fuel vehicle uptake, including supporting deployment of a statewide public charging network and other actions to optimise the benefits for South Australians. 4.2. Plan to transition the public The government will plan for a staged transition of the public transport fleet transport system to align with net and operations to align with the government’s net zero emissions targets. zero emissions targets The work will be informed by a trial of commercially available and operationally proven hydrogen and/or electric buses. Emissions reduction will be supported in contracts for procurement, operation, maintenance and service delivery of the public transport fleet. 4.3. Investigate mechanisms to reduce The government will investigate ways to facilitate and encourage low the emissions intensity of freight emissions freight and heavy vehicle transport in South Australia and to and heavy vehicle transport prepare for low and zero emissions vehicles. The government will contribute to Australian Government initiatives to provide efficient freight corridors. CASE STUDY: Zero emissions bus manufacturing South Australia’s Precision Buses, part of the BusTech Group, is building battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell buses for the Australian and international market. The company has developed strategic partnerships with international technology providers to ensure that its zero emissions buses incorporate the most advanced battery and fuel cell technology. South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 33 Align transport and urban planning with low emissions transport outcomes To reduce emissions and ensure efficient and reliable mobility, the government’s transport planning will Some current initiatives: contribute to more efficient road and rail transport infrastructure, prioritise public transport and separated The government is working with the City of bikeways, and prepare for low and zero emissions vehicles. Adelaide on a 20-year City Access Strategy to guide more efficient travel in and around the Urban and built environments that reduce the need for car Adelaide CBD, reducing reliance on private travel and make active travel more accessible are integral motor vehicles, and encouraging active travel to the creation of liveable urban spaces and rejuvenated and public transport use. neighbourhoods. South Australia’s State Planning Policies The government has rezoned land at strategic support land use development integrated with transport locations close to public transport and activity and infrastructure planning. This includes locating more centres to create a more compact urban form housing options and mixed-use development close to that supports active travel and the use of existing and proposed public transport routes and planning public transport. for urban growth that minimises freight movement and reduces travel distances. Actions 2021–25 4.4. Plan for development and urban Land use policy and planning will provide for neighbourhoods that are renewal that creates walkable, more walkable and connected and that support public transport uptake. connected neighbourhoods and For example, the Metropolitan Growth Management Program seeks to reduces the need for car journeys locate development near areas well serviced by public transport and other infrastructure. 4.5. Align transport planning with net The government’s Climate Smart Policy Directions will be embedded zero emissions outcomes in transport and infrastructure planning and investment frameworks. This will ensure that investment decisions consider construction and operational emissions, transport user emissions and low emissions mobility technologies. 34 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 Increase the use of public transport and active travel Greater use of public transport, active travel (such as cycling and walking) and e-mobility options (such as e-scooters) Some current initiatives: reduces traffic congestion and improves public health and wellbeing, while contributing to reducing the state’s Driverless vehicle trials are helping to inform greenhouse gas emissions. transport planning and grow the technology with the potential to deliver better services and fill To encourage South Australians to leave their cars at home gaps that exist in the public transport network. and use the public transport network, the government will The Tonsley rail line is being extended to make tram, train and bus services more efficient, more Flinders Medical Centre, creating new public accessible and more frequent. transport and active travel connections to To stimulate more active travel, the government will health, innovation and education precincts. prioritise delivery of enhancements to key walking and As part of the Northern Connector Project, over cycling routes. In road network allocation, increased 24 kilometres of shared use path connect the priority will be given to pedestrians, separated bikeways Stuart O’Grady Bikeway to Port Adelaide. The and public transport. path provides links to the Dry Creek and Little Para River Trails and the Gawler Greenway between Islington and Mawson Lakes. Actions 2021–25 4.6. Drive increased patronage of public The government will deliver a modern and customer-focused public transport through delivery of transport network to encourage greater uptake and thereby reduce private services that are more efficient, car use and associated greenhouse gas emissions. This includes integrated and customer-focused investigating more on-demand transport services. 4.7. Develop and deliver an active The government will plan for prioritised delivery of improvements to key travel and mobility program for cycling and walking routes to increase opportunities for active travel. Priority Greater Adelaide greenways will be completed and the bikeways network will be expanded and separated as funding is made available. In addition, provision for pedestrians, cyclists and public transport in road network planning and upgrades will be increased. South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 35

5. Climate smart built and urban environments Built and urban environments that are climate resilient and have net zero emissions will support ongoing prosperity and wellbeing and maintain South Australia’s reputation as one of the most liveable places in the world. Key objectives: • Provide for development and design that is low emissions and climate resilient • Accelerate strategic urban greening • Understand and reduce climate change risks to infrastructure Provide for development and design that is low emissions and climate resilient Much of the infrastructure, buildings and urban design that climate can inform changes to land use planning that help we establish now will still be in place in 2050 or beyond and avoid inappropriate development in high risk areas. will need to be safe, functional and relevant in a climate and economy very different from today. Government procurement, infrastructure requirements, urban renewal and public housing strategies can also help Our built and urban environments also provide opportunities encourage more low emissions and climate resilient for significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. infrastructure, buildings and public spaces. Guidance will be Opportunities include phasing out synthetic gases developed to help stakeholders go ‘beyond compliance’ in commonly used in refrigeration and air conditioning, climate smart design. switching to renewable electricity or hydrogen fuel, improving energy efficiency in buildings, and using low- carbon materials in construction. Some current initiatives: With greater priority on emissions reduction and climate South Australia’s State Planning Policies provide resilience, there will be potential business growth for climate-ready development, greening and opportunities in climate smart materials, design, retrofit and water sensitive urban design. construction solutions. These opportunities include supply The government is trialling low emissions and manufacture of low emissions building materials, such cement in non-structural concrete elements for as green cement and steel or engineered timber; climate the Regency to Pym St section of the new South resilient urban design; and onsite energy efficiency, Road motorway. renewable energy and storage solutions. Building Upgrade Finance helps commercial The South Australian government will play a key role in building owners access loans to improve enabling climate smart design and construction through energy, water and environmental efficiency. improving policies and standards in South Australia’s planning and development system and by influencing Some 4100 Housing SA properties will receive policies in the National Construction Code. Working with solar PV and batteries to save money on their local government to better understand how natural hazards, power bills. such as floods and bushfire, will change under a future 36 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 Actions 2021–25 5.1. Strengthen climate smart South Australia’s land use planning system will continue to identify and planning, building and design implement improvements in planning policies, practices and assessments policies and their implementation for low emissions and climate resilient planning and development outcomes. in the planning system 5.2. Embed strategic climate impact The best available understanding of climate related risk will inform assessment into Regional Plans development of regional plans under South Australia’s modernised planning system. Regional Plans provide regionally specific strategic direction for integrated land use planning, transport infrastructure and economic development and identify areas for conservation and protection. 5.3. Support development and The South Australian government will contribute to improvements in implementation of stronger climate standards in energy efficiency, emissions and climate resilience in the smart standards in the National National Construction Code and relevant South Australian standards. This Construction Code includes supporting development of guidance to assist developers and home owners to apply the standards. 5.4. Promote opportunities to encourage Work will be undertaken to develop opportunities, including guidance or the private and public sector to go targeted guidelines, that encourage consumers, designers, developers, ‘beyond compliance’ in climate builders and assessors to understand and apply climate smart design that smart design goes ‘beyond compliance’ with relevant standards. 5.5. Support climate smart development The government will support environmentally sustainable design and for public housing, affordable construction of public housing, affordable housing solutions and innovative private dwellings and urban urban precinct developments. This includes consideration of thermal renewal projects performance, energy efficiency, solar and battery storage systems and health and wellbeing outcomes. 5.6. Deliver low emissions infrastructure Agencies will use specifications and contract tools to help drive low and operations emissions infrastructure design, construction, operation and maintenance. Where feasible, agencies will encourage the use of low and zero emissions technology and materials, and support recycling and reuse as part of a more circular economy. 5.7. Assess climate change risks on When providing advice and giving direction on new development applications, development applications referred the Environment Protection Authority will assess how climate related changes, to the Environment Protection such as sea level rise and more frequent extreme weather events, increase risks Authority for direction to, or alter the environmental impacts, of the proposed development. CASE STUDY: Climate smart built environment at Lot Fourteen Lot Fourteen, on the site of the former Royal Adelaide Hospital, has been 6 Star Green Star Community rated for high levels of sustainability and climate change resilience. The adaptive reuse of the heritage-listed buildings retains captured carbon and reduces loss of materials to landfill. Lot Fourteen also uses shared heating, cooling, waste, energy and transport services, rather than providing these on a building-by-building basis. South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 37 Accelerate strategic urban greening Green infrastructure refers to assets such as trees, parks, accelerate efforts to green and cool our backyards, streets wetlands, green roofs and walls, and rain gardens. and neighbourhoods. This includes coordinating new Increasing green infrastructure helps to reduce urban heat, actions to identify strategic priorities, address barriers to create habitat for wildlife, and improve liveability and uptake and increase the number of urban greening projects amenity. For example, trees and other vegetation have across Adelaide. been shown to reduce land surface temperatures by between 5 and 6 degrees Celsius during heatwavesx. Cooling benefits can be enhanced with smart irrigation. Some current initiatives: The 30-Year Plan for Greater Adelaidexi aims to increase urban The Open Spaces and Places for People, and green cover by 20% in metropolitan Adelaide, creating cooler, Greener Neighbourhoods funds provide grants shady and more walkable neighbourhoods and more habitat. to local councils to create neighbourhoods that are greener, cooler and more connected. To encourage greater levels of urban greening, the existing requirements for urban greening and water sensitive urban The government’s Healthy Parks Healthy People design in the land use planning system will be expanded SA program released Creating Greener Places and planning policies, guidelines and incentives will be for Healthy and Sustainable Communities in 2019 improved. As urban block sizes reduce and infill as a guide to promote and prioritise quality green development occurs, more effort will be needed to ensure open spaces in our neighbourhoods. space for green infrastructure on both public and private SA Water and local councils' monitoring of land. Reliable water supplies will also be needed to maintain irrigated green spaces shows that they are, on trees and green spaces (see the focus area 'Climate smart average, three to five degrees cooler compared agriculture, landscapes and habitats'). with non-irrigated spaces. This information will help plan future park upgrades and is available The Green Adelaide Landscape Board has a focus on on the SA Water website. greening and water sensitive urban design and will work with state government agencies and local government to Many built up areas become 38oC urban heat islands during hotter conditions. Green areas with trees and vegetation lower surface and air temperatures. 36oC Late afternoon temperature 34oC 32oC Rural Suburban Park Lands City Centre Park Lands Suburban Coasts 38 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 Actions 2021–25 5.8. Identify strategic opportunities for Green Adelaide, state government agencies and local councils will work urban greening in metropolitan together to identify and map strategic opportunities for green infrastructure Adelaide to address the urban heat island effect and optimise benefits. 5.9. Develop improved policies, tools The government will work to improve standards, incentives and guidelines and guidance for the new planning aligned with the South Australian Planning System to support greater uptake system to achieve greener and of green infrastructure across the state. cooler neighbourhoods 5.10. Increase implementation of green Green Adelaide and state government agencies will collaborate on an infrastructure through capacity integrated program of measures to increase greening in public and private building and incentives spaces, including funding grants, capacity building, and greening of suitable infrastructure projects. CASE STUDY: Cool Road Adelaide The Cool Road Adelaide project, a partnership between the state government, City of Adelaide and Climate KIC Australia, tested three heat-reflective road treatments at Bowen Street West, near the Adelaide Central Bus Station. All three products showed a reduced surface temperature relative to the control asphalt road, with one showing a reduction of 8.6 degrees Celsius during the day and 4.2 degrees Celsius at night. South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 39 Understand and reduce climate change risks to infrastructure The South Australian government is responsible for a wide The South Australian government partners with industry and range of infrastructure that supports communities and the Australian Government to manage critical infrastructure. underpins economic growth, including in the areas of Critical infrastructure provides the services that are essential transport, energy, water, waste, health, culture and for everyday life such as energy, food, water, transport, recreation, tourism and education. communications, health, banking and finance. The development of a South Australian critical infrastructure It has been estimated that constructing infrastructure that strategy will help address the likely impacts of climate is more climate resilient has a long-term benefit-to-cost change and align with work being conducted nationally and ratio of around 4:1 while adding only around 3% to upfront within industry on critical infrastructure resilience. costsxii. Addressing climate related risk in the location, design, construction and operation of infrastructure will mitigate costs arising from more frequent and severe natural hazards such as heat stress, bushfires, flooding and Some current initiatives: extreme storms. For example, the cost to businesses of a As part of the reform of the land use planning statewide blackout from one major storm event in 2016 was system, coast protection policies ensure that new estimated at around $367 millionxiii. development is not exposed to hazards such as coastal flooding, erosion and sea level rise. New infrastructure, such as sea walls or flood-protection works, will also play an important role in reducing risk from The Department for Infrastructure and Transport more frequent and severe natural hazards. takes account of natural hazards and climate related risks in the planning and design of new The government will continue to improve its understanding transport infrastructure. and management to reduce risks of climate related damage to public infrastructure. Actions 2021–25 5.11. Develop a South Australian critical The government will develop a strategy for supporting and achieving infrastructure strategy resilient critical infrastructure that considers all hazards and threats, including the impacts of natural hazards under a changing climate. 5.12. Assess and address climate Agencies will manage climate change risk in long-term infrastructure change risk in government decisions, including infrastructure investment, location, design, construction infrastructure decisions, risk and material selection. This includes using climate change projections and assessment and audit processes scenarios to inform risk assessment, management and audit processes. 40 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025

6. Resilient communities Communities across South Australia are experiencing the impacts of a changing climate and are responding in a variety of ways. The government will continue to assist communities to reduce risk, adapt and build resilience. Key objectives: • Support communities and businesses to build resilience and adapt • Enhance climate change adaptation in emergency management and health services • Provide high-quality and accessible climate change science and information Building resilience and reducing climate related risk requires The changing climate also affects communities in a range of communities, businesses, individuals and governments at all other ways, including health impacts from increased levels to work together to prevent, prepare for, respond to pollutants and allergens, risks to food and water supplies, and recover from climate change impacts. and effects on mental health. As the climate changes, natural hazards such as heatwaves, Minimising these impacts requires a wide range of bushfire, drought, storms and floods are projected to responses. Many actions across different focus areas in this become more frequent and severe. More people and assets Action Plan will contribute to building community resilience are likely to be exposed and vulnerable, with increasing and reducing risk, including land use planning changes, social and economic costs. business innovation, agriculture and infrastructure management, water management and urban greening. Creating a more bushfire resilient South Australia During the 2019–20 bushfire season, South Australians experienced the worst bushfire conditions on record, including an extended fire danger season, prolonged heatwave conditions and fires that exceeded the limits of firefighting capacity. In South Australia, about 280,000 hectares of land was burned and the bushfires resulted in three fatalities, numerous injuries and significant property loss and damage. In response to the Independent Bushfire Review into South Australia’s 2019–20 Bushfire Seasonxiv the government is investing to better prepare the state for future significant bushfire events. Key actions include increased hazard reduction, new trucks and better equipment, enhanced communications and technology, better protection for critical assets and improved bushfire management planning. South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 41 Support communities and businesses to build resilience and adapt Building resilience is strongly linked with reducing disaster risk. South Australia is committed to implementing the Some current initiatives: National Disaster Risk Reduction Framework to reduce disaster risk related to natural hazards in a changing climate. Regional Climate Partnerships deliver local climate Joint Commonwealth and state disaster risk reduction funding adaptation and mitigation projects ranging from supports projects that enable communities and businesses to hazard mapping, greening and smart irrigation adapt to changing climate related risks. projects, through to education programs and community capacity building. A range of new or enhanced actions will be delivered to During heatwaves, the SA State Emergency Service create greater awareness and build resilience in response to issues scaled heatwave warnings and SA Health the risk of natural hazards and disasters. For example, executes an Extreme Heat Strategy to manage heat implementation of Stronger Together: South Australia’s impacts on community health. Disaster Resilience Strategy 2019–2024 will deliver projects to support communities and small businesses to be better Programs such as Climate Ready Schools provide prepared and function during and after natural disasters. resources and support for students and teachers to adopt sustainable practices that reduce their The state government will continue its engagement in school's greenhouse gas emissions and Regional Climate Partnerships in collaboration with local operating costs. government and other regional organisations to support local on-ground climate adaptation and mitigation projects. Actions 2021–25 6.1. Implement the National Disaster The framework and strategy will support practical actions across agencies Risk Reduction Framework and to reduce disaster risk and build community resilience in the face of more Stronger Together: South frequent and severe bushfires, storms, floods and heatwaves. Australia’s Disaster Resilience Strategy 6.2. Build the resilience of small Small businesses and not-for-profit organisations will have access to businesses and not-for-profit information and engagement activities to improve continuity planning and organisations to climate change, build resilience to climate change, natural disasters and adverse events. The natural disasters and adverse program will be piloted in Kangaroo Island and the Adelaide Hills. events 6.3. Engage with the community about Climate change information and impacts will be incorporated in emergency the increasing frequency and management sector education and engagement to create greater severity of emergencies and awareness and understanding of being more prepared for hazards and disasters natural disasters. 6.4. Support Regional Climate The government will partner with local government and other regional Partnerships to deliver local organisations through the Regional Climate Partnerships network to support adaptation and mitigation projects projects that help communities adapt and mitigate climate risk. 42 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 CASE STUDY: Where We Build, What We Build The Resilient Hills and Coasts Regional Climate Partnership (supported by the South Australian government) and the Insurance Council of Australia have assessed how different housing types perform in response to flood, bushfire and heat. The economic benefits of climate-ready homes were shown to outweigh the costs for new builds and retrofits. Guidance has been developed on how to build a climate-ready home. South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 43 Enhance climate change adaptation in emergency management and health services The government will take a coordinated approach to Australian Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2020–2025, emergency management that considers the impacts of climate which positions the state’s health system for the future, change on all hazards and government's capacity to reduce recognises that climate change poses risks for the health risks and meet changing patterns of demand for services. system to manage. All government agencies will consider how their functions, operations and services could be affected and how to Some current initiatives: mitigate risks. Hazard leaders identified in the State Emergency Management Plan have particular Extreme heat or cold weather activate either a responsibilities to understand and adapt to changing needs Code Red or Code Blue response coordinated in preparing, managing and responding to natural disasters. by government, resulting in homelessness services visiting rough sleeper locations to Much of South Australia’s capacity to respond to natural make people aware of the support available. hazards and disasters relies on volunteers from the SA Health supports local councils with public Country Fire Service and State Emergency Service. The health planning, including consideration of state government will seek to understand and address climate change risk as a key public health issue. future demands through its volunteering and workforce strategies and planning. The government has increased funding for bushfire prevention measures to help mitigate Climate change is also an important public health issue. increasing fire risk and to build community Protecting against public and environmental health risks resilience. and responding to climate change is a priority in the State Public Health Plan 2019–2024. Likewise, the South Actions 2021–25 6.5. Build the capability and capacity of Incorporate new data and technology to better understand and respond to emergency services to mitigate and the impacts of climate change on emergency services, including the adapt to climate related risks, volunteer workforce. Adaptation and mitigation priorities will be identified including an adaptive volunteer and strategies developed to strengthen capacity and build future capability. workforce 6.6. Embed climate change adaptation The emergency services sector will integrate climate risk management and into emergency services governance, responses to the increased frequency and intensity of natural hazards into policy and decision-making organisational policy, planning and operations, including investment in new assets and technology. 6.7. Assess and plan for future health SA Health will assess the vulnerability of its assets and programs, develop a services, programs and policy model for assessing health service and policy needs, and develop a needs and for health assets and sustainability policy to guide the development and delivery of future projects, infrastructure in a changing climate partnerships, policies and programs. SA Health will work in partnership with other agencies to mitigate and adapt to the changing climate. 44 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 Provide high-quality and accessible climate change science and information High-quality and accessible information about the accessibility for individuals, planners and other decision- changing climate and its impacts is fundamental for makers to use in risk assessments and adaptation planning. communities, businesses and individuals to manage climate related risks and take advantage of opportunities. Some current initiatives: The government’s Climate Change Science and Knowledge Plan for South Australia will further improve the quality and The government’s SA Climate Ready website availability of scientific and technical information for planning provides regional data on projected changes in and risk management. rainfall, temperature, frost and other climate variables through to 2100. A priority action is to improve mapping, modelling and information on how climate related hazards—especially South Australia is working in partnership with bushfire, flood, extreme heat and coastal inundation— New South Wales and the Australian Capital could intensify as the climate changes. This work will Territory to improve climate change projections inform climate risk assessment, land use and infrastructure and hazard data for South Australia using the planning, zoning and development approvals, and latest generation climate models and emissions emergency management planning. The state government scenarios. will work with local government to deliver this work. Urban heat maps and maps of coastal inundation The government is committed to continuously improving risks are available at Enviro Data SA. climate change data and information and ensuring its Actions 2021–25 6.8. Implement the Climate Change The Climate Change Science and Knowledge Plan for South Australia Science and Knowledge Plan for identifies key actions to improve and share science and knowledge to South Australia enable informed decision-making on managing climate risk. This includes improving online access to scientific and technical information for climate change response planning. 6.9. Integrate future climate change risk The Department for Environment and Water will work with local government into hazard mapping and information and other government agencies to improve mapping, modelling and information on how risks from flood, bushfire, extreme heat and coastal inundation will be affected by climate change. South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 45

7. Government leading by example The South Australian government will lead by example by reducing its emissions and demonstrating best practice in managing climate related risk and opportunities. Key objectives: • Embed climate change risk and opportunity into government policy and practice • Accelerate work towards net zero emissions in government Embed climate change risk and opportunity into government policy and practice South Australian government agencies will build on existing the community and individuals to adapt. For example, SA initiatives to ensure climate related risks are adequately Health will assess the climate change vulnerability of its considered and addressed in decision-making, policy and assets and programs to inform planning for future health planning, service delivery, asset management and emergency services and infrastructure. management. There are also opportunities to explore what government A coordinated approach will be taken to build the capacity of agencies can do to encourage broader climate smart agencies to assess climate related risks and identify effective outcomes. For example, government procurement policies, adaptation strategies for priority risks. and specifications for buildings, infrastructure and other capital works, can create demand for and encourage Strengthening the government’s approach will enable innovation in low emissions and climate resilient goods and agencies to more effectively meet changing demands for services. services, reduce risks to public assets and infrastructure, and provide suitable information and policies to support business, Accelerate work towards net zero emissions in government The government will take an across-agency approach to implement practical and cost-effective emissions reduction Some current initiatives: actions for its assets and operations, including vehicles, buildings, infrastructure and waste management. For The Sustainable Schools Program supports example, the government’s energy contract will support energy efficiency improvements and renewable additional renewable energy generation and storage in South energy upgrades in schools and has supported Australia, reducing government emissions and creating jobs. lighting upgrades in 200 schools and solar PV New investment announced in 2020 to improve energy systems in more than 40 schools. efficiency in government buildings will further reduce The Renewal SA development at Bowden has emissions while also creating jobs and reducing energy costs. been 6 Star Green Star Communities rated for More work will be undertaken to develop an emissions high levels of environmental sustainability and inventory, identify emissions reduction goals and timeframes, climate change resilience. assess existing initiatives, and implement additional emissions Minimum 5 Star Green Star interiors and reduction opportunities. Robust measurement, data performance ratings are required for new management and reporting systems will be established to government buildings and substantial track progress. refurbishments. 46 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 Actions 2021–25 7.1. Ensure climate risk and opportunity A coordinated Climate Risk Ready Government initiative will build agencies’ are addressed across government capability to identify and respond to climate related risk and opportunities. policy and practice All agencies will take action to ensure climate related risks and opportunities are understood and addressed. 7.2. Explore and implement additional Procurement requirements and guidance for government agencies to climate smart procurement reforms support greater adaptation and emissions reduction outcomes will be developed and implemented. 7.3. Explore innovative financing and The government will explore options for innovative financing and investment investment approaches for that can support public and private sector adaptation and emissions adaptation and emissions reduction reduction projects. 7.4. Coordinate an across-agency An across-agency program will support agencies to reduce emissions from government greenhouse gas government assets and operations in a cost-effective manner. This will emissions reduction program include implementing robust measurement and using new monitoring and reporting systems to track progress towards achieving net zero emissions. 7.5. Develop and implement a The government will implement a South Australian Government Waste government waste strategy Strategy to improve recycling and waste management in South Australian government premises and, thereby, contribute to emissions reduction. CASE STUDY: Making the state’s health assets more energy efficient SA Health’s buildings account for around half of the government’s energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. All new builds and major refurbishments aim to achieve 20% greater energy efficiency than the minimum required in the 2019 National Construction Code. Since 2000–01, the energy efficiency of SA Health buildings has improved by more than 27%. CASE STUDY: SA Water’s Zero Cost Energy Future SA Water is working towards a zero cost energy future, including the installation of around 500,000 solar panels. The panels will generate 242 GWh of energy – equivalent to the power needs of 50,000 average South Australian homes. For every year of operation, this will assist in reducing emissions equivalent to planting 7 million trees or removing more than 32,000 cars from the road. South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 47 48 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 Implementation and reporting All state government agencies have a role in implementing government will remain open to new opportunities and the Action Plan and robust across-agency implementation actions arising from stakeholder engagement, innovation, arrangements will be established. advances in technology, and changing market demands. The government recognises that reducing state emissions The state’s progress in reducing emissions will be and building a climate smart state requires a whole-of- measured and publicly reported drawing from data community and whole-of-economy response. produced by the Australian Government’s national greenhouse gas inventory. The government will work with industries, businesses, communities, local government and the Australian The Premier’s Climate Change Council, an independent Government to implement the Action Plan and encourage advisory body to the South Australian government, will action beyond the role of government. assist in monitoring implementation of the Action Plan. The Council will lead a review of progress prior to the end of the While the Action Plan describes the core activities that implementation period and work with government agencies government agencies will deliver, the South Australian to inform future government priorities and actions. South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 49

Appendix 1: Action summary 50 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 Table A1: Summary of key objectives and government-led actions Directions for a Climate Smart SA Government leading by Reduce net emissions Unlock innovation and Provide accessible Build resilience economic opportunity information example Lead agency (and key Key objectives and actions and adapt partners)2 1. Clean energy transformation Accelerate the renewable energy economy 1.1 Drive the continued development of renewable   DEM (with DTI) energy and energy storage 1.2 Fast-track construction of a new South Australia to New South Wales high capacity electricity   DEM interconnector 1.3 Implement South Australia's   DEM Energy Solution 1.4 Implement energy demand management and   DEM productivity programs 1.5 Increase renewable electricity generation in   DEM (with SA Water) remote communities Develop a world-class renewable hydrogen industry 1.6 Implement South Australia’s Hydrogen Action Plan   DEM (with DTI) 2. Climate smart economy Attract and grow businesses and industries powered by renewables 2.1 Support the growth and attraction of businesses   DTI (with DEM and GISA) and industries powered by renewables Support climate smart business innovation, risk management and growth 2.2 Integrate climate smart thinking into export DTI and DEW (with DIS, GISA sector strategies and South Australia’s Growth    and other Growth State State Plan partner agencies) 2.3 Coordinate delivery of climate smart business DEW (with DTI, DIS, PIRSA, engagement     DPC, DEM and GISA) 2.4 Support research and development to deliver    DIS and DEW (with GISA) new climate smart innovation 2.5 Support the development and commercialisation of innovative climate smart    DIS (with GISA) products and services 2.6 Support development of renewable energy and climate smart industry training products and     DIS pathways 2.7 Work with Environment Protection Act 1993 licensees to understand climate change risk and  EPA (with DEW) liabilities and enable adoption of risk management strategies 2 Please see Abbreviations for explanations of agencies. Key state government agency partners are indicated, noting other stakeholders and partners, including local government and the Australian Government, will also be involved as appropriate. South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 51 Directions for a Climate Smart SA Government leading by Reduce net emissions Unlock innovation and Provide accessible Build resilience economic opportunity information example Lead agency (and key Key objectives and actions and adapt partners)2 2.8 Grow the South Australian water industry as a local and global supplier of innovative water   DEW (with SA Water) solutions Develop a more circular economy 2.9 Support business and communities to adopt GISA (with EPA and SA circular economy practices    Water) 2.10 Implement South Australia’s Waste Strategy   GISA (with EPA) 2020–2025 2.11 Implement South Australia's Food Waste   GISA (with EPA) Strategy 2.12 Deliver a stronger regulatory framework to reduce waste and encourage greater reuse of   EPA materials to support a circular economy Develop a climate smart resources sector 2.13 Develop and implement policies to facilitate investment in large-scale carbon capture and   DEM (with EPA) storage 2.14 Develop projects and strategies to facilitate the discovery of minerals that support technology   DEM and a low emissions economy 2.15 Investigate climate change regulatory risk that may apply to the minerals sector in South   DEM Australia 3. Climate smart agriculture, landscapes and habitats Support the agricultural sector to adapt, innovate, and reduce net emissions 3.1 Identify and develop climate smart aquaculture   PIRSA opportunities 3.2 Identify opportunities for commercial   PIRSA (with DEM and GISA) development and use of biomass 3.3 Support primary producers in adaptation PIRSA (with DEW, GISA and planning, reducing net emissions and     landscape boards) identifying economic opportunities 3.4 Implement enhanced biosecurity surveillance   PIRSA and reporting Support expansion of carbon farming and blue carbon 3.5 Implement the Blue Carbon Strategy for South DEW (with PIRSA, SA Water, Australia    landscape boards and EPA) 3.6 DEW and PIRSA (with GISA, Support uptake of carbon farming opportunities    SA Water and landscape boards) 3.7 Develop carbon sequestration opportunities on    DEW conservation land 52 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 Directions for a Climate Smart SA Government leading by Reduce net emissions Unlock innovation and Provide accessible Build resilience economic opportunity information example Lead agency (and key Key objectives and actions and adapt partners)2 Ensure secure, climate resilient regional and urban water supplies 3.8 Increase climate resilient water supplies, water   SA Water reuse and efficient use of water 3.9 Undertake water security planning for priority DEW (with landscape boards, regional areas   SA Water and PIRSA) 3.10 Develop a framework to deliver integrated DEW (with SA Water and urban water management and inform   Green Adelaide) investment decisions Build the climate resilience of landscapes, habitats and natural resources 3.11 Develop a climate smart, long-term coastal DEW and CPB (with strategy  landscape boards) 3.12 Assess the implications of climate change for DEW (with landscape boards, South Australia’s ecosystems to inform critical   PIRSA, SA Water and AGD) adaptation strategies 3.13 Develop and apply a dynamic biodiversity fire DEW (with landscape boards management planning tool for conservation  and CFS) outcomes 3.14 Landscape planning will consider climate change mitigation and adaptation for natural     Landscape boards and DEW resources and landscapes 4. Low emissions transport Support the uptake of low and zero emissions vehicles and fuels 4.1 Implement South Australia’s Electric Vehicle DEM (with DIT, DTF, GISA and Action Plan    DTI) 4.2 Plan to transition the public transport system to align with net zero emissions targets    DIT 4.3 Investigate mechanisms to reduce the emissions intensity of freight and heavy vehicle  DEW and DIT (with DEM) transport Align transport and urban planning with low emissions transport outcomes 4.4 Plan for development and urban renewal that creates walkable, connected neighbourhoods   AGD and reduces the need for car journeys 4.5 Align transport planning with net zero emissions DIT (with DEW, DTF, ISA, AGD outcomes   and DPC) Increase the use of public transport and active travel 4.6 Drive increased patronage of public transport through delivery of services that are more  DIT efficient, integrated and customer-focused 4.7 Develop and deliver an active travel and  DIT mobility program for Greater Adelaide South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 53 Directions for a Climate Smart SA Government leading by Reduce net emissions Unlock innovation and Provide accessible Build resilience economic opportunity information example Lead agency (and key Key objectives and actions and adapt partners)2 5. Climate smart built and urban environments Provide for development and design that is low emissions and climate resilient 5.1 Strengthen climate smart planning, building and design policies and their implementation in the   AGD (with DEW and GISA) planning system 5.2 Embed strategic climate impact assessment into   AGD (with DEW) Regional Plans 5.3 Support development and implementation of AGD and DEM (with DEW and stronger climate smart standards in the National    GISA) Construction Code 5.4 Promote opportunities to encourage the private and public sectors to go ‘beyond compliance’ in    ODASA climate smart design 5.5 Support climate smart development for public housing, affordable private dwellings and urban     SAHA and Renewal SA renewal projects 5.6 Deliver low emissions infrastructure and operations    DIT and all agencies 5.7 Assess climate change risks on development applications referred to the Environment   EPA Protection Authority for direction Accelerate strategic urban greening 5.8 Identify strategic opportunities for urban Green Adelaide (with AGD, greening in metropolitan Adelaide  DEW and SA Water) 5.9 Develop improved policies, tools and guidance AGD (with Green Adelaide for the new planning system to achieve greener   and DEW) and cooler neighbourhoods 5.10 Increase implementation of green infrastructure Green Adelaide, AGD and through capacity building and incentives  DIT (with Renewal SA) Understand and reduce climate change risks to infrastructure 5.11 Develop a South Australian critical infrastructure DPC (with SA Police and strategy   relevant infrastructure agencies) 5.12 Assess and address climate change risk in government infrastructure decisions, risk    All agencies (with ISA) assessment and audit processes 6. Resilient Communities Support communities and business to build resilience and adapt 6.1 Implement the National Disaster Risk Reduction SAFECOM (with CFS, MFS, Framework and Stronger Together: South   SES and other emergency Australia’s Disaster Resilience Strategy management organisations) 54 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 Directions for a Climate Smart SA Government leading by Reduce net emissions Unlock innovation and Provide accessible Build resilience economic opportunity information example Lead agency (and key Key objectives and actions and adapt partners)2 6.2 Build the resilience of small businesses and DIS (with SAFECOM, DEW not-for-profit organisations to climate change,   and GISA) natural disasters and adverse events 6.3 Engage with the community about the SAFECOM (with emergency increasing frequency and severity of   management organisations) emergencies and disasters 6.4 Support Regional Climate Partnerships to DEW (with Green Adelaide deliver local adaptation and mitigation projects   and landscape boards) Enhance climate change adaptation in emergency management and health services 6.5 Build the capability and capacity of emergency SAFECOM (with CFS, MFS services to mitigate and adapt to climate related    and SES) risks, including an adaptive volunteer workforce 6.6 Embed climate change adaptation into SAFECOM (with CFS, MFS emergency services governance, policy and    and SES) decision-making 6.7 Assess and plan for future health services, programs and policy needs and for health   SA Health assets and infrastructure in a changing climate Provide high-quality and accessible climate change science and information 6.8 Implement the Climate Change Science and DEW (with AGD, DPC, Knowledge Plan for South Australia SAFECOM, CFS, MFS, SES,  CPB, SMA and landscape boards) 6.9 Integrate future climate change risk into hazard DEW (with AGD, DPC, mapping and information   SAFECOM, CFS, MFS, SES, CPB and SMA) 7. Government leading by example Embed climate change risk and opportunity into government policy and practice Accelerate work towards net zero emissions in government 7.1 Ensure climate risk and opportunity are All agencies and DEW addressed across government policy and   (including key boards) practice 7.2 Explore and implement additional climate smart DEW and DTF (with DIT, GISA procurement reforms    and EPA) 7.3 Explore innovative financing and investment approaches for adaptation and emissions   DEW (with DTF) reduction 7.4 Coordinate an across-agency government greenhouse gas emissions reduction program   DEW (with all agencies) 7.5 Develop and implement a government waste strategy   GISA (with all agencies) South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 55 56 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 Abbreviations AGD Attorney-General’s Department EPA Environment Protection Authority CCS Carbon Capture and Storage GISA Green Industries SA CFS Country Fire Service ISA Infrastructure SA CPB Coast Protection Board MFS Metropolitan Fire Service DEM Department for Energy and Mining ODASA The Office for Design and Architecture SA DEW Department for Environment and Water PIRSA Primary Industries and Regions SA DIS Department for Innovation and Skills SAFECOM South Australian Fire and Emergency Services Commission DIT Department for Infrastructure and Transport SAHA SA Housing Authority DPC Department of the Premier and Cabinet SES State Emergency Service DTF Department of Treasury and Finance SMA Stormwater Management Authority DTI Department for Trade and Investment South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 57 Glossary of terms Active travel Carbon sink Making journeys by physically active means such as walking, Any natural or manufactured reservoir that absorbs more cycling, skating, and skateboarding. carbon than it releases and thereby lowers the concentration of carbon in the atmosphere. Natural carbon sinks include plants, Climate change adaptation soils and oceans. The process of adjustment to actual or expected climate and its effects. Adaptation works to manage the risks caused by Circular Economy climate change already in train and those caused by potential An alternative to the wasteful traditional ‘linear’ economy based future climate change. on ‘take, make, use and dispose’. A circular economy is a self-sustaining system driven by renewable energy with an Biodiversity imperative to keep material resources in use or ‘circulating’ for The variety of life in all its forms (plants, animals, fungi and as long as possible. micro-organisms), the communities that they form and the habitats in which they live. Climate change mitigation Efforts to reduce or prevent emissions of greenhouse gases to Blue carbon limit changes to the climate. The carbon captured and stored in coastal ecosystems, including seagrass meadows, saltmarshes and mangroves. Climate smart A deliberate and considered approach to growing our Climate change economy while becoming more climate resilient and reducing Change in weather patterns over long periods of time. greenhouse gas emissions. Carbon neutral Ecosystem Emitting no net greenhouse gas emissions, in that the net A community of living organisms (plants, animals and microbes) emissions associated with an activity are equal to zero because in a particular area. The living and physical components are all emissions have been reduced and/or offset. linked together through nutrient cycles and energy flows. Carbon sequestration Ecosystem services The removal of atmospheric carbon dioxide, either through The direct and indirect contributions of ecosystems to human biological processes (e.g. photosynthesis in plants) or wellbeing, such as fresh water, pollination, pest control and geological processes (e.g. storage of carbon dioxide in climate regulation. Ecosystem services directly or indirectly underground reservoirs). support our survival and quality of life. Carbon dioxide equivalent Emission intensity A measure of greenhouse gas emissions that enables all The emission rate of greenhouse gas relative to the greenhouse gases to be converted to the equivalent amount of intensity of a specific activity or an industrial production carbon dioxide with the same global warming potential. process (e.g. grams of carbon dioxide released per megajoule of energy produced). 58 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 Greenhouse gas emissions Net zero emissions Atmospheric gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, that Net zero emissions means that any remaining greenhouse gas trap and hold heat in the atmosphere, leading to global emissions, after emissions are reduced, are balanced out by warming and climate change. removal of an equivalent amount of carbon through additional carbon storage or carbon credits generated from a range of Green infrastructure emissions reduction activities. The network of green places and water systems that delivers urban cooling and other benefits to urban communities. This Resilience network includes parks and reserves, backyards and gardens, The ability to survive, adapt and grow no matter what happens. waterways and wetlands, streets and transport corridors, This requires a community, business or natural environment to pathways and greenways, orchards, plazas, business and have the capability and capacity to prevent, withstand, respond institutional green areas, roof gardens and living walls, sports to, and recover from a climate related disruption. fields and cemeteries. Landscapes Landscapes include the natural and built environment, natural resources, and the different ways people value and interact with their environment. Liveability A measure of quality of life that considers socio-economic, environmental, transport and recreational factors and is used to benchmark cities around the world. Climate change mitigation Efforts to reduce or prevent emissions of greenhouse gases to limit changes to the climate. Natural resources Natural resources include land, soil, water resources, native vegetation, animals and ecosystems. Net emissions reduction Emissions reduction in which some greenhouse gas emissions are balanced by additional carbon storage in carbon sinks; the more emissions are reduced, the less additional carbon storage will be needed. South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 59 References i Government of South Australia 2019, Directions for a Climate Smart South Australia, viewed November 2020, https:// www.environment.sa.gov.au/topics/climate-change/climate-smart-sa. ii Bureau of Meteorology 2020, Australian climate variability & change – trend maps; Trend in mean temperature 1970– 2019, viewed November 2020, https://data.environment.sa.gov.au/Content/Publications/Guide%20to%20climate%20 change%20projections%20for%20risk%20assmt%20and%20planning%20in%20SA.pdf. iii Green G and Pannell A 2020, Guide to Climate Projections for Risk Assessment and Planning in South Australia, Department for Environment and Water, viewed November 2020, https://data.environment.sa.gov.au/Content/ Publications/Guide%20to%20climate%20change%20projections%20for%20risk%20assmt%20and%20planning%20 in%20SA.pdf. iv Garnaut R, 2020, South Australia’s Climate Change Challenge and Opportunity, Government of South Australia, viewed November 2020, https://www.environment.sa.gov.au/topics/climate-change/climate-smart-sa/climate-change- challenges-opportunities. v Australian Energy Market Operator (via openNEM), viewed November 2020, https://opennem.org.au/energy/sa1/. vi AEGIS (Australian Greenhouse Emissions Information System) 2019, Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources. vii Speirs, D 2020, 'New report highlights South Australia’s leadership in climate change', media release, 17 September, viewed November 2020, https://www.premier.sa.gov.au/news/media-releases/news/new-report-highlights-south- australias-leadership-in-climate-change. viii Lifecycles et al. 2017, Creating value: potential benefits of a circular economy in South Australia, viewed November 2020, https://www.greenindustries.sa.gov.au/_literature_172204/Potential_Benefits_of_a_Circular_Economy_in_ South_Australia_-_report_(2017). ix Ossola D et al. 2019, Urban trees and people’s yards mitigate extreme heat in western Adelaide. Macquarie University, Sydney. x Government of South Australia 2017, The 30-Year Plan for Greater Adelaide 2017 Update, viewed November 2020, https://livingadelaide.sa.gov.au/. xi Global Commission on Adaptation 2019, Adapt now: a global call for leadership on climate resilience, viewed November 2020, https://cdn.gca.org/assets/2019-09/GlobalCommission_Report_FINAL.pdf. xii Business SA 2016, Blackout survey results, viewed November 2020, https://www.business-sa.com/getmedia/1b28b42b- 0fc3-4ce4-ac24-de71d825c51a/J009159_blackout-Survey-results_v8. xiii Government of South Australia 2020, Independent Review into South Australia's 2019-20 Bushfire Season, viewed November 2020, https://www.safecom.sa.gov.au/independent-review-sa-201920-bushfires/independent-review-report/. Photo credits: Cover far right: SA Water; Inside cover: City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters; Page 2/3: AC Services; Page 4: SA Health; Page 6: sonnen Australia; Page 9: Andrew Bartlett; Page 12: SA Water; Page 14: Department for Environment and Water; Page 16: AC Services; Page 19: Enel Green Power (case study); Page 20: Australian Gas Industry Group; Page 21: SIMEC Energy Australia; Page 22: The University of Adelaide; Page 23: Teys; Page 24: Holla-Fresh; Page 25: Santos; Page 27: Primary Industries and Regions SA (both images); Page 28: Department for Environment and Water; Page 29: SA Water; Page 31: Department for Environment and Water(case study), James McGregor, Biodiverse Carbon / Greening Australia (main image); Page 33: Precision Buses; Page 34: Department for Infrastructure and Transport; Page 35: Department for Infrastructure and Transport; Page 37: Renewal SA; Page 39: Catherine Leo (case study), City of Unley (main image); Page 41: Rob Hartill; Page 43: Department for Environment and Water (main image); SA Water (case study); Page 47 SA Health (case study), SA Water (case study); Page 50: Andre Gascoigne; Page 56: Waite Research Institute; University of Adelaide; Page 61: SIMEC Energy Australia. 60 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 South Australian Government Climate Change Action Plan 2021–2025 61 With the exception of the Piping Shrike emblem, other material or devices protected by Aboriginal rights or a trademark, and subject to review by the Government of South Australia at all times, the content of this document is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 Licence. All other rights are reserved. © Crown in right of the State of South Australia. 2020 | FIS 96103 www.environment.sa.gov.au