Planning for climate change

Global warming caused by increasing greenhouse gases in the atmosphere is changing climate patterns and weather events.

As the climate continues to change, South Australia will become hotter and drier, with more frequent and intense extreme weather events. Rising sea levels will exacerbate coastal flooding and erosion risks.

Our planning system can help build a state that is more resilient to the impacts of climate change and achieves our target of net zero emissions by 2050.

Planning and Land Use Services and the State Planning Commission are working to embed climate change considerations across South Australia’s planning policies and procedures, based on the best available climate science and research.

The planning system needs to make sure development does not increase vulnerability to climate change, contributes to mitigation and directs development away from areas prone to hazards now and in the future.

Preparing for and mitigating climate change impacts also means we need climate-smart development that is designed for the future climate, maximises water and energy efficiency and minimises greenhouse gas emissions associated with construction and operation.

We will continue to work with local government, industry and the community, including the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands and waters of South Australia, to collaborate on planning ideas and solutions that can influence and respond to climate change.

The Planning for Climate Change (PDF, 11242 KB) brochure outlines how the planning system can respond to climate change risks, and the specific planning projects we have implemented and planned to address climate change challenges and take advantage of climate-related opportunities.

Documents

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