In this webinar, Professor Bruce Mountain Director of the Victoria Energy Policy Centre presents his latest research on reducing transmission costs and helping industrial and commercial premises cut electricity bills with innovative behind-the-metre energy solutions.
C4C has been a strong supporter of Professor Mountain’s work, particularly his insightful “Business Power” policy, which provides a practical approach to leveraging large-scale battery-backed rooftop PV systems for enhanced energy security and cost savings.
Professor Mountain discusses how businesses can capitalise on this model to participate in the electricity wholesale market by trading excess energy and securing power supply even during non-solar hours. The policy’s proposed solar feed-in floor price and battery discharge floor price could incentivise efficient energy generation and storage, ultimately driving down electricity costs and ensuring long-term energy resilience.
Our sustainable agricultural delegation recently facilitated an inspiring visit to Zambia, showcasing the power of international collaboration in addressing environmental challenges. This journey emphasized the importance of global solidarity and the impact that dedicated individuals and organizations can have on communities worldwide.
A Warm Welcome by the Sikaunzwe Farmers in Zambia
During the visit, we were profoundly grateful for the warm and hospitable reception received in Zambia, especially by the Sikaunzwe farmers. The surprise and honour of being welcomed by such a gracious community left a lasting impression on all of us. The support and facilitation provided by Ambassador Munshya and District Commissioner Elias were instrumental in making our visit a success.
Understanding Local Challenges
The visit highlighted the severe challenges faced by local communities due to recent droughts. We met with talented agronomists and other experts who shared insights into the difficulties encountered by farmers in the region. Despite the magnitude of these challenges, the spirit of resilience and determination was evident among the community members.
The Role of the Coalition for Conservation
The Coalition for Conservation is committed to making substantial contributions to environmental sustainability. With our extensive network and dedicated team, we are equipped to tackle significant challenges and provide meaningful support to communities in need. Our initiatives span across various regions, focusing on sustainable agricultural practices, climate resilience, and community empowerment. We believe that even modest contributions can have a profound impact, and our dedication to fostering global connections ensures that we can offer the necessary assistance to make a real difference.
A Shared Global Responsibility
The visit to Zambia reinforced the idea that, despite geographical distances, we are all connected as global citizens. Whether in Australia or Zambia, the fundamental needs and aspirations of people are the same. We all strive to provide for our families, ensure a sustainable future, and create a supportive environment for the next generation.
Conclusion
Our visit to Zambia was a testament to the power of international collaboration and the shared responsibility of caring for our planet. By building strong global connections and supporting communities facing environmental challenges, we aim to make a positive and lasting impact. The visit served as a reminder that together, we can overcome adversity and work towards a sustainable future for all.
In the face of severe drought, Teifla, a courageous young farmer, has endured the loss of her entire livelihood. Her story highlights the harsh realities of climate change and the resilience needed to overcome such adversities.
A Farmer’s Struggle
Teifla’s farming efforts were devastated by drought. She had been cultivating maize and other crops on her 7-hectare plot, but the relentless dry conditions wiped out her harvest. Despite her efforts, the drought left her with nothing, and the assistance she received was minimal.
The Impact of Drought
The severity of the drought is evident in the dry and barren state of Teifla’s land. The condition of the soil is dire, posing a significant risk to her farming future. While there is hope for soil regeneration, the current situation remains precarious.
The Timeline of Hardship
Teflon recounted the timeline of her struggle. Initially, heavy rains led to flooding, which was followed by an extended period of drought. This erratic weather pattern has made farming increasingly challenging, disrupting the natural growing cycle and causing substantial crop loss.
Looking Ahead
Despite these challenges, Teifla remains determined to rebuild. She is preparing to replant her crops, taking a step-by-step approach to restore her farm. Her resilience and perseverance are commendable, as she continues to work towards a sustainable future for her land.
Soil Regeneration and Hope
One of the critical issues Teifla faces is the condition of the soil. The cementation layer, which prevents water absorption, exacerbates the problem. Addressing this issue is essential for successful replanting and long-term sustainability. Efforts to regenerate the soil will be crucial in helping farmers like Teflon overcome these challenges.
Conclusion
Teifla’s story is a testament to the resilience and determination of farmers facing the devastating effects of climate change. Her journey underscores the urgent need for support and sustainable practices to help communities adapt and thrive in the face of environmental challenges. By sharing her experiences, we hope to raise awareness and foster a collective effort to combat the impacts of drought and ensure a better future for farmers worldwide.
Australia faces significant challenges with drought and water levels, making it one of the most water-scarce continents. This reality underscores the importance of international collaboration in addressing environmental issues. Recently, we had the privilege of visiting Kazungula, Zambia, to foster such partnerships and share knowledge on sustainable practices.
The Meeting in Kazungula
Our visit to Kazungula was facilitated by His Excellency Dr Elias Munshya, whose efforts made the meetings productive and welcoming. We were deeply honoured to meet with District Commissioner Elias Samibila and his team at his office. The hospitality we received was beyond our expectations and set a positive tone for our discussions.
Building Friendship for Collaboration
The primary goal of our visit was to build a strong foundation of friendship with the people of Kazungula. We believe that true collaboration stems from genuine relationships. Face-to-face interactions are crucial for understanding and addressing shared challenges, rather than relying on distant communication. Despite the geographical distance between Australia and Zambia, there are striking similarities, particularly in agriculture and climate change, that make our collaboration valuable.
Shared Environmental Challenges
Both Australia and Zambia share common environmental challenges, especially in agriculture and climate change. The thin layer of topsoil that nourishes our planet is critical for sustaining life, yet it is often misunderstood and neglected. Our mission is to enhance the understanding and management of this vital resource. By working together, we aim to improve agricultural practices and address the pressing issue of climate resilience.
Strengthening Cooperation
We are committed to ensuring that our partners from Australia can work directly with the communities in Kazungula. Any challenges that arise will be addressed collaboratively, smoothing the path for successful projects and initiatives. This spirit of cooperation is a testament to what Australia stands for – a commitment to fostering international friendships and tackling global challenges together.
Conclusion
Our visit to Kazungula, Zambia, marked the beginning of a promising collaboration. By building strong friendships and working closely on shared environmental issues, we aim to make a significant impact on sustainability. Together, we can create a better future for both our nations and contribute to the health of our planet.
Our recent visit to EllySam Farms in Zambia was an eye-opening experience, showcasing the resilience and determination of local farmers in the face of severe droughts. The goal of the visit was to share knowledge and find sustainable solutions to the pressing challenges of climate change.
Understanding the Impact of Droughts
EllySam Farms, like many others in Zambia, has been significantly affected by recent droughts. This year has been particularly harsh, marking the worst drought in the past 40 years. The farm’s owners shared their journey and the difficulties they face, not just at EllySam Farms but also those of the Zambia Rice Federation. The conversation highlighted the urgent need for innovative solutions to combat the effects of climate change on agriculture.
Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing
Our visit was not only about offering support but also about learning from the local farmers. We were joined by Mulloon Institute and Regenerative Australian Farmers, who provided insights into soil quality improvement and water catchment techniques. The exchange of ideas was invaluable, and we are committed to continuing this dialogue and collaboration.
Looking Ahead
We are hopeful that with the support and knowledge shared during our visit, the farmers at EllySam Farms can implement effective strategies to improve their resilience against future droughts. Our ongoing partnership aims to provide the necessary resources, including the construction of a much-needed dam, to secure a sustainable water supply for the farm.
Conclusion
Our visit to EllySam Farms underscored the importance of international cooperation in addressing environmental challenges. By working together, we can develop sustainable agricultural practices that benefit both local communities and the global environment. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with the farmers of Zambia to create a more resilient and sustainable future.
