New Environmental Sustainability Strategy charts a greener future
Published on 22 July 2026
Council endorsed a new Environmental Sustainability Strategy 2026–2031 at today’s ordinary meeting of council that will guide the organisation’s sustainability efforts over the next five years.
The strategy replaces council’s previous sustainability framework and sets out a practical roadmap focused on natural environment stewardship, climate change resilience, resource use efficiency and community wellbeing.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the strategy reflected council’s commitment to protecting the region’s natural environment while preparing for future challenges.
“Our region is one of the most environmentally diverse in Queensland, with 320 kilometres of coastline, more than 70 tropical islands, significant rainforest areas and habitats that support hundreds of native species,” Mayor Williamson said.
“For example, our region is home to 350 bird species, more than 250 fish species, about 100 reptile species and more than 30 different frogs.
“We are incredibly fortunate to call this region home, and this strategy provides a clear and practical path to help protect these natural assets while ensuring Mackay remains a fantastic place to live, work and invest.”
The strategy is built around five key pillars:
- Sustainability leadership as an organisation
- Natural and coastal environment
- Climate change adaptation and resilience
- Resource use and emission reduction
- Community wellbeing and sustainability.
Key actions include developing a Natural Environment Plan, expanding urban tree canopy cover, strengthening climate risk management, reducing council greenhouse gas emissions, improving waste and resource recovery outcomes, incorporating sustainability into planning and decision-making and continuing investment in energy efficiency initiatives.
Mayor Williamson said the strategy focused on delivering tangible outcomes for both residents and the environment.
“Council has already made significant progress, with our solar installations generating more than 3.3 million kilowatt hours of electricity each year and associated reduction of 2600 tonnes of carbon emissions annually.
Council is also undertaking detailed energy efficiency studies at major operational sites to improve equipment efficiency, optimise building services and reduce energy losses.
“This strategy builds on that momentum and provides a clear pathway to further reduce emissions, strengthen our environmental stewardship and ensure we continue leading by example for our community.”
Mayor Williamson said community feedback had helped identify priorities including environmental protection, more efficient waste management, climate change resilience and stronger partnerships to support a sustainable region.
“Thank you to everyone who contributed their time and ideas throughout the consultation process,” he said.
“Environmental sustainability is a shared responsibility, and this strategy recognises the important role residents, businesses, Traditional Custodians, community groups and all levels of government play in helping deliver lasting sustainable outcomes.”
The Environmental Sustainability Strategy 2026-2031 will guide council’s sustainability actions through to 2031, with annual monitoring and public reporting on progress with its implementation.
Residents can view the strategy at Environment and sustainability