How Labor Plans to Tackle Climate Triggers in the EPBC Act: What You Need to Know

The Albanese government has decided not to back the Greens’ push for a climate trigger in national environment laws. This news comes after Environment Minister Murray Watt approved the extension of Woodside’s North West Shelf gas project until 2070.

This project is one of Australia’s largest liquefied natural gas operations and will now operate well beyond the government’s target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Notably, the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act currently does not require consideration of the climate impact during approvals like this, focusing instead on aspects like indigenous heritage and the site’s rock art.

The government plans to reform the EPBC Act, guided by the recommendations from the 2021 Samuel Review. However, these changes will not include the proposed climate trigger, which has left many environmental advocates dissatisfied.

The Greens have accused Labor of secretly supporting fossil fuel projects, claiming this marks a significant failure in their climate commitments. Greens leader Larissa Waters expressed that allowing fossil fuels to operate until 2070 contradicts the government’s stated goals for climate action. She encouraged environmental groups to consider legal action against this approval.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defended the decision, emphasizing the need for gas as a stabilizing force during the transition to renewable energy. He stated that a reliable energy supply is essential for implementing more renewable sources.

This debate taps into a broader conversation about how governments approach climate policy. The push for renewables has gained traction, but the reliance on fossil fuels remains contentious. Polling shows a growing preference for renewable energy among the Australian public, highlighting the complexity of balancing economic interests with environmental responsibilities.

As we look to the future, the question remains: Can Australia shift toward a sustainable energy future while navigating the realities of existing fossil fuel operations? The path forward will likely involve intense discussions and potential transformations in policy and public opinion.



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