Murray Watt Dismisses Climate Trigger in EPBC Revisions: What It Means for the Environment

Murray Watt, Australia’s Environment Minister, has put the brakes on the idea of a “climate trigger” in the country’s environmental laws. This decision reassures those concerned it could halt new major resource projects.

For years, activists have urged the government to add a climate trigger to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act. They believe it could help safeguard against climate change impacts.

Currently, the federal government must assess new projects that affect “national environmental significance.” However, climate change isn’t included in this. Without the trigger, projects with high carbon emissions won’t automatically be reviewed.

Watt expressed confidence in the existing Safeguard Mechanism, which mandates that heavy industries reduce emissions to meet government targets. He mentioned, “We are leaning towards following Graeme Samuel’s recommendation,” which calls for project proponents to disclose their emissions and submit abatement plans, but stressed no further actions are on the table.

Samuel’s review, commissioned in 1999 under the Morrison government, produced 38 recommendations and led to the controversial Nature Positive Plan last year.

The idea of a climate trigger raised concerns about economic impacts. Former Chamber of Minerals and Energy of Western Australia CEO Rebecca Tomkinson warned it could become a “pseudo ban on development” in Australia. Warren Pearce, from the Association of Mining and Exploration Companies, pointed out the irony of jeopardizing future mineral projects essential for energy transitions due to stricter regulations.

In the Senate, Watt firmly ruled out the climate trigger. “I cannot see the Government agreeing to a climate trigger,” he stated. As deliberations on the revised Act continue, it’s clear that significant changes in Australia’s approach to environmental legislation are on the horizon. The final decision on the revised law is expected in Parliament by the end of the year.

To understand how Australia stands in the broader context of climate policy, consider that over 150 countries have committed to various climate goals through international agreements like the Paris Accord. Many nations have incorporated stronger climate impact assessments in their environmental laws, reflecting growing global awareness of climate issues.

This revised approach by the Australian government, while seemingly practical in preserving economic growth, might spark debate as nations worldwide push for stronger climate protections.



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