The latest installment of Planning: our future, looks at how Phillip Island can build to help – not harm – the environment.
According to the Gippsland Climate Projections report, coastline levels rose at an average rate of 2.1mm/yr between 1966 and 2009, and are expected to continue rising through the 21st century.
By the 2030s, increases in daily maximum temperature of 0.9C to 1.8C (since the 1990s) are expected, rainfall in the long-term is expected to decline, while dramatic bushfire events are likely to occur more frequently and with greater severity.
So how should we plan for these outcomes, while reducing carbon emissions? Here are just a few examples of how individuals, groups and the shire are leading the way.
GEOTHERMAL
Phillip Island’s proposed aquatic centre could be heated with geothermal water, sourced from deep underground.
Bass Coast Shire commissioned hydrogeological consultants Rockwater to map the geothermal potential for the proposed Cowes aquatic centre, with pool water and air heating likely to form the bulk of energy consumption.
“Where possible geothermal system installation can substantially reduce the cost of this energy while also returning significant environmental and emission benefits and savings,” the study said.
The prefeasibility study found the Cowes site – on the corner of Phillip Island Road and Ventnor Road – is underlain by about 70m of tertiary rocks, with the depth to water likely to be 10 to 20 metres below ground level “which has been able to produce water at about 40C”.
Cowes’ aquatic centre will likely need a total heating load of 1950 to 2000KW, which could be supplied by four complex types of geothermal systems, according to the Rockwater study, including deep boreholes, heat pumps and heat exchangers.
The study recommends further research to determine the best value for money and return on investment.
Other energy efficient systems to be explored include solar power and the use of shading and natural ventilation.
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