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The introduction by Sunshine Coast Council of a fleet of fully electric, commercial grade, ride-on mowers, is the largest adoption of environmentally friendly mowers by any Australian local government.

The five new mowers are sourced from innovative technology supplier Eco-Teq and also reduce noise pollution by up to 50%.

The clean, green machines will be used to service Council’s parks and recreation spaces, cemeteries, and Sunshine Coast Stadium.

Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Mark Jamieson said that for more than a decade, council had consistently taken a proactive, evidence-based approach to deliver on its sustainability commitment.

Mayor Jamieson notes “In line with our Environment and Liveability Strategy 2017, one of council’s Transformational Actions is to be a zero-net emissions organisation and low-carbon community by 2041.

“The Organisational Zero-Net Emissions Plan provides council with a strong platform for action to proactively respond to our 2041 emissions reduction target in a strategic, integrated and coordinated way.

“While our new electric mowers may seem like a small step, it’s important to recognise that this is only the beginning, and more emissions abatement measures will be implemented as we introduce the Organisational Zero-Net Emissions Plan.”

Environment and Liveability Portfolio Councillor Maria Suarez said the program was a great step towards becoming Australia’s most sustainable region.

“We are passionate about maintaining open spaces our community loves to enjoy,” Cr Suarez said.

“You may see more of council’s new mowers in action around the region but will be hearing less of them.

“Keep an eye out across the region to see the fleet in action, easily identified by Zero emissions and 100% electric stickers.”

Key sustainable features of the electric mowers include:

• emitting zero CO2e emissions
• 100% electric
• low noise operation with sound emissions reduced by up to 50%
• built with low-carbon footprint manufacturing process
• zero risk of hydraulic oil leaks ending up in waterways
• lithium battery has a longer lifecycle and extended use between charges
• 70% reduction in maintenance costs compared to diesel machines
• incorporates an inline electricity meter to measure charging use.

Image top: New electric mowers in action at Kings Beach Amphitheatre; Image above: Electric mower lined up

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