A green way to keep it green

Published on 22 November 2023

Going green is no longer just a trend – and the ‘Green Machine’ is a great example of that at Glenelg Shire Council.

With awareness of sustainable practices increasing, councils are well positioned to lead their communities so that sustainability is firmly embedded into the Australian way of life.

While a lack of infrastructure and the cost associated with installing charging stations means the transition to environmentally friendly fleet and plant – a commitment made in the 2021-25 Council Plan – might still be a little way off, Council has been proactive in starting the transition.

The Works Unit, Parks and Gardens have recently purchased our first zero emissions fully electric light plant in the form of a 74-inch (188cm) rear discharge zero turn mower nicknamed the ‘Green Machine’.

With this mower we get a high-performance, highly efficient solution that’s great for the community, our bottom line, and the planet.

Many Australian councils have pledged to reach net zero emissions targets much sooner than the 2050 target the Australian Government announced at the 2021 COP26 UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow.

Glenelg Shire Mayor Karen Stephens said Council was on the first steps of its net zero commitment.

“In the 2040 Community Plan and Vision, Council is committed to developing and expanding upon its environmental sustainability practices,” she said.

“This will take time but we are working with the community to reduce the local carbon footprint, and aiming to be a carbon neutral region.”

Photo caption: Glenelg Shire Council Parks and Gardens Operator Michael Skinner with the ‘Green Machine’, a zero emissions fully electric rear discharge zero turn mower.