In Australia, around 64% of total emissions are carbon dioxide, which has dropped by 38% since mid-2005. This decline is mainly due to the rise of renewable energy and the use of land as a carbon sink. Methane emissions, largely from agriculture, coal mining, and landfills, account for about 29% of greenhouse gases. Interestingly, they have decreased by 16% over the last two decades.
The Climate Change Authority is set to recommend a new target for 2035, likely between 65% and 75% reductions based on a sector-by-sector review of potential cuts. A recent survey by Resolve found that 44% of 1,800 voters support this target, while only 18% oppose it.
Within the government, opinions on climate policy are divided. The Labor party is allowing a debate on a bill proposed by former Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce, which seeks to discard Australia’s commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Conversely, another bill from independent MP Zali Steggall, which aims to enhance transparency in climate risk reporting, may not be brought to the floor for discussion.
Anna Malos from Climateworks Centre underscored the need for an ambitious 2035 target. “With decisive action across all sectors, we can cut emissions much more than expected,” she noted. Modelling by Climateworks and CSIRO suggests Australia could achieve an 85% reduction in emissions by 2035 through technology adoption.
In the context of the Paris Agreement, which aims to keep global warming well below 2 degrees, current policies are not making enough of an impact. Right now, projections indicate that the world could warm by 2.6 to 3.1 degrees by 2100 if national pledges remain unchanged.
Professor Sebastian Pfautsch from Western Sydney University emphasized that achieving net-zero emissions is not enough. He warned that just stabilizing emissions will not solve the problem. “We need to actually reduce CO2 levels in the atmosphere. Net-zero only leaves us at harmful concentrations above 600 ppm,” he explained. This urgent perspective highlights the importance of more substantial actions to protect our ecosystems.
In closing, the journey towards significant climate action in Australia is complex and challenging. However, with ongoing public support and expert insights, there’s potential for a brighter, sustainable future.
