The ACT Government has appointed two ANU researchers as new members of the ACT Climate Change Council.   Prof Mark Howden, Director of ANU Climate Change Institute (CCI), and Assoc Prof Cris Brack, Fenner School of Environment and Society, will join Honorary Prof Penny Sackett (also a CCI member) who will now serve as Chair.
"I'm delighted to be able to contribute to the vital work of the ACT Climate Change Council", said Prof Howden.   "The ACT Government is a world leader in climate action as evidenced by the fact that Canberra's electricity will be sourced from 100% renewable energy by October this year.  The achievements of the ACT are also inspiring other jurisdictions around the world to lift their game in terms of climate action."   
"Our main focus will be advising on practical ways to progress towards the ACT's net-zero emissions goal by 2045," continued Prof Howden.   "I also want to ensure that climate adaptation is well-addressed and done in ways that don't increase the ACT's carbon footprint."
Assoc Prof Brack is especially focussed on working with the Council to develop urban forestry and urban green spaces in Canberra.   "I'm interested in both mitigating climate change effects on human health and the environment, and keeping these forests and green areas resilient," he said.
Other new appointments to the Council were Ms Sophia Hamblin Wang and Dr Paul Bannister, who join existing members Ms Karren Jesson and Mr Ben Ponton, Director-General of the ACT's Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate.    
Outgoing members of the Council include CCI members, Prof Frank Jotzo (who served since 2012), Prof Barbara Norman and Emeritus Prof Will Steffen.
Read more about the ACT Climate Change Council here.