The Minns Labor Government has responded to calls from local government to help address the growing number of cases of illegal tree clearing in NSW.
An Explanation of Intended Effect (EIE) is aimed at protecting tree canopy by proposing stronger penalties for illegal tree and vegetation clearing.
Stronger protection
Under the proposed policy changes, additional enforcement powers would be given to councils and exemptions would be tightened for dead, dying and dangerous vegetation to close loopholes that have been open to abuse.
The EIE responds to growing concerns among councils, the community and stakeholders that the current framework needs to be updated.
Cooler Places hub
A new ‘Cooler Places’ hub has also been launched by the Minns’ government to help address urban heat, and the NSW Government’s Cooler Places online resource has been released to assist councils, residents and developers in accessing practical guidance to incorporate cooling measures into their homes and designs.
The resource encourages cooling through low-cost and innovative measures such as water-saving features, trees, shrubs awnings and the use of materials and colours that absorb less heat.
In 2020, a study from Macquarie University found shade provided by urban trees can lower temperatures at ground level by up to 6°C. Similarly, research from Wollongong University in 2019 showed that areas with at least 30 per cent tree-canopy cover experience improved mental and physical health outcomes.
Working with councils
Minister for Environment and Climate Change Penny Sharpe said, “NSW records some of the hottest temperatures on the planet and we need to minimise the impacts of urban heat and build climate resilience.
“Tackling illegal tree clearing is an essential part of this.
“Working with councils on these proposed measures will increase the ability to crack down on illegal activity.”
To read the illegal tree and vegetation clearing EIE and make a submission visit the Vegetation in non-rural areas web page.