8Guiding principles

8 Guiding principles

8 Guiding principles

(1) For this Act, the guiding principles are the principles set out in this section.

(2) There is a critical need to act to address climate change, which is a serious threat to the social, economic and environmental wellbeing of New South Wales.

(3) Action to address climate change should be taken as early as possible to minimise the cost and adverse impacts of climate change.

(4) Action to address climate change should be taken in a way that—

(a) is fiscally responsible, and

(b) promotes sustainable economic growth, and

(c) considers the economic risks of delaying action to address climate change, and

(d) considers the impact on rural, regional, and remote communities in New South Wales.

(5) Action to address climate change should be consistent with the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment.

(6) Action to address climate change should be consistent with the principles of ecologically sustainable development described in the Protection of the Environment Administration Act 1991, section 6(2).

(7) Action to address climate change should involve appropriate consultation with affected persons, communities and stakeholders.

(8) Action to address climate change should take into account the following—

(a) the knowledge and perspectives of Aboriginal communities,

(b) the best available science,

(c) the knowledge of rural, regional and remote communities in New South Wales,

(d) the need to support local communities, including Aboriginal communities, who may be affected by the action, including by—

(i) considering the impact on local employment and industries, and

(ii) diversifying local economies, and

(iii) encouraging local procurement, and