Climate change adviser appointed

Melanie Barthe, SWDC and CDC’s new climate change adviser. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

There’s a new face behind the fight against climate change in Carterton and South Wairarapa.

Melanie Barthe has been appointed as the South Wairarapa District and Carterton District councils joint climate change adviser.

The position was created after several submissions were received during the annual plan consultation requesting the councils take meaningful actions addressing climate change.

Barthe’s new role will have her advising the two councils on steps they can implement to mitigate the effects of climate change, provide input into council operations and educate the public about actions they can take.

“I’ve always been interested in climate change since I was a student which led to writing a climate change strategy,” she said.

“Now that I have a daughter, I really want to make things better for her and leave her the best world we can.”

Carterton District Council’s community services manager Carolyn McKenzie said the two councils were fortunate to have someone with her background to guide them in their operations.

“We are very excited to have Melanie join our team and lead the two councils in our climate change adaptation strategies,” she said.

Barthe will work from Monday to Wednesday and will be based in the Community Services team at the Carterton Events Centre, and Thursdays at South Wairarapa District Council.