Amid Coalition Struggles, Government Sets Bold Path for Climate Action and Emission Reductions

Australia’s carbon emissions are a significant concern, making up about 64% of the nation’s total emissions. Since 2005, these emissions have dropped by 38%, largely due to the shift towards renewable energy and better land use practices. Methane, primarily from agriculture, coal mining, and landfills, accounts for 29% of emissions but has decreased by 16% over the last 20 years.

The Climate Change Authority is set to recommend a new target for 2035, likely aiming for a 65-75% reduction in emissions. A recent survey indicated that 44% of voters support this target, while only 18% oppose it.

Political discussions on climate policy are heating up. The Coalition is divided on the matter, and Labor plans to debate a private member’s bill by Barnaby Joyce that could derail Australia’s commitment to net zero emissions by 2050. Meanwhile, Zali Steggall, an independent MP, has proposed a bill to enhance climate risk reporting, but it’s unlikely to be debated.

Anna Malos from the Climateworks Centre praises the government’s efforts but argues for a more ambitious 2035 target. She believes that with increased action across all sectors, Australia could reduce its emissions by up to 85% by then.

Recent research from Climateworks and CSIRO reinforces that if Australia wants to keep global warming below 1.5 degrees, it must aim for net zero before 2040, well ahead of the current 2050 target. This aligns with the goals of the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees. However, current commitments indicate the world may be on track for a rise of 2.6-3.1 degrees by the end of the century.

Professor Sebastian Pfautsch from Western Sydney University highlights an important aspect often overlooked: simply achieving net zero might not be enough. Reducing the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is crucial. He warns that just stabilizing at net-zero emissions could leave CO2 levels dangerously high, threatening life on Earth.

This ongoing debate about climate policy reflects broader concerns and varying opinions among experts and the public. The call for more ambitious targets is becoming louder, and how Australia responds could shape its climate future.



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