An Eco Chat WITH A POLLIE

It’s been a while since COVERED. has caught up with Member for Mackellar, Jason Falinski. We chatted about all things climate change, local eco initiatives and how we can all do our bit to help the planet too.

Recently, Member for Mackellar, Jason Falinski secured a grant of just under $150,000 for the installation of solar panels on the Bayview Golf Club. The solar panels will help to reduce carbon emissions locally, ensuring the Northern Beaches is doing its bit to combat climate change.

“The Club will now become a Northern Beaches leader for renewable energy. The solar panels will not only reduce the club’s power bills, but will contribute to the government’s commitment to ensuring a more sustainable future.” Mr Falinski said.

Mona Vale Bush Regeneration is another project that Jason is supporting. This project will remove dense, noxious weeds such as Asparagus Fern and Lantana, in an area of about 5000m2. This will allow regeneration of native plant species, along with tube stock planting, will restore this area to a healthy coastal ecosystem, providing habitat for the wildlife of the area.

and restore our coastline, and bush flora and fauna. As inhabitants of the Northern Beaches, we owe it to the next generation to preserve the beautiful environment we call home.”

This project will reduce an environmental threat, helping the native dune plants and wildlife in the area.

“I advocate strongly for marine parks because I value our marine environment. Growing up on the Northern Beaches, I have a close connection to the beach and our waterways and believe it is very important that we keep them clear of pollution and damage. Under this government, Marine Parks have increased by over 50%.”

Falinski has instituted a Keep Cup policy in his office, insisting that his staff always take a Keep Cup from the office when they go to get a coffee.

“It is simple strategies like these that can reduce our waste output. Every take away cup that we do not use is one less in landfill or worse, littered in our waterways or ocean. Individual households should also think about the little things they can do to save energy and create less pollution. Because if everyone does their bit, it can make a difference. For example, is it possible to walk somewhere rather than drive?”

As of recently, Falinski has been supporting a new initiative at his office called Foodbank Australia: a not-forprofit charity that distributes food to those who have difficulty supporting themselves or their families, in avoiding hunger. Approximately 3.6 million Australians seek food relief annually.

“The Christmas period can be a very stressful time for those doing it tough. This is why my office is holding a food drive with Foodbank. The drive aims to relieve some of the stress of the holiday period for families that need some extra support. We are accepting food and sanitary donations in my office until the 16th of December and I have been overwhelmed with the amount of support we have already received.” •