Australia Sets Ambitious Emission Reduction Targets for 2035

In a significant policy shift, Australia has announced its intention to reduce carbon emissions by at least 62% from 2005 levels by the year 2035. This decision comes amid increasing global scrutiny regarding the country’s reliance on fossil fuels and its historical position as one of the largest per capita polluters in the world. The new target, unveiled by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, represents a substantial increase from the previously established goal of a 43% reduction by 2030.

The New Emission Reduction Target

Prime Minister Albanese described the new emissions target as a “responsible target supported by science and a practical plan to get there, built on proven technology.” The announcement was made during a press conference on Thursday, where he emphasized the importance of aligning Australia’s climate goals with scientific recommendations.

The revised target aligns with the emission reduction benchmark of between 62% and 70% proposed by the Climate Change Authority, a government body that advises on climate policy. The Prime Minister is scheduled to reaffirm this commitment at an upcoming United Nations General Assembly meeting in New York later this month.

Context of the Paris Climate Agreement

Australia’s commitment to reducing emissions is part of its obligations under the Paris Climate Agreement, which was established in 2015. This international treaty aims to limit global temperature increases to no more than 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Such a cap is deemed essential for mitigating the most severe impacts of climate change.

In recent years, Australia has experienced a range of climate-related disasters, including severe droughts, historic bushfires, and record-breaking floods. These extreme weather events have underscored the urgent need for effective climate action.

The Impact of Climate Change in Australia

A landmark risk assessment released by the Australian government this week highlighted the country’s vulnerability to increasingly severe weather conditions as a consequence of human-induced climate change. The report indicated that Australia has already surpassed the 1.5C warming threshold, suggesting that no community is immune from the “cascading, compounding and concurrent” risks associated with climate change.

The assessment warned of potential future scenarios, including increased heatwave-related fatalities, deteriorating water quality due to flooding, and rising sea levels that could endanger approximately 1.5 million Australians. Additionally, the report projected a staggering A$611 billion (approximately $406 billion) decline in property values as a result of these environmental threats.

Political Divide on Climate Policy

Despite the ambitious new targets, Australia’s climate agenda remains a contentious issue within the political landscape. The opposition Liberal National coalition is currently grappling with internal disagreements regarding the net zero emissions goal, with some members questioning whether to maintain support for it. Opposition leader Sussan Ley publicly criticized the new emissions target, labeling it as lacking both “cost and credibility.”

The Albanese government, which took office in 2022, had previously elevated climate targets from the conservative coalition’s range of 26% to 28%. The current administration has expressed aspirations to transform Australia into a “renewable energy superpower.” However, this ambition has been called into question due to ongoing approvals for fossil fuel projects.

Just last week, the government granted permission for one of the nation’s largest gas projects, Woodside’s North West Shelf, to continue operations for another 40 years, extending until 2070. This decision has drawn significant criticism from climate experts and environmental advocates, with Australian Greens MP Larissa Waters describing it as a “betrayal” by the Labor government.

Looking Ahead

As Australia moves forward with its new emissions target, the country faces the dual challenge of addressing climate change while navigating the political complexities that accompany such ambitious goals. The upcoming UN General Assembly meeting will provide an opportunity for Prime Minister Albanese to further outline Australia’s commitment to combatting climate change on the global stage.

With the increasing frequency of climate-related disasters and the growing urgency for action, the stakes have never been higher for Australia. The government’s ability to balance fossil fuel interests with the need for sustainable energy solutions will be closely monitored by both domestic and international observers.

Key Facts

– **New Emission Target**: Australia aims to cut carbon emissions by at least 62% from 2005 levels by 2035.
– **Previous Commitment**: The prior target was a 43% reduction by 2030.
– **Climate Change Authority**: The new target aligns with recommendations from the Climate Change Authority.
– **UN General Assembly**: Prime Minister Albanese will confirm the commitment at the UN meeting later this month.
– **Climate Risks**: A recent report indicates Australia has surpassed 1.5C warming, with significant risks to communities and property values.
– **Political Landscape**: The opposition coalition is divided over climate policy, with criticism directed at the government’s fossil fuel approvals.

Source: www.bbc.com