Kean believes that any advice from the Climate Change Authority should come from a careful look at new technologies. He wants to focus on what can realistically be delivered, rather than just promises. “If some of those technologies work out, fantastic,” he says.
Facing challenges, Kean has navigated a political landscape where many of Biden’s climate policies were dropped under Trump. Yet, he notes that China’s advancements in green tech have shifted the economic landscape positively. While the government isn’t required to follow the Authority’s recommendations, it’s likely they will listen given the political weight invested in climate policy.
Chris Bowen, the Climate Change and Energy Minister, is pushing for Australia to host the COP climate talks next year. However, Turkey is making a strong competing bid. To move forward, Australia’s 2035 climate target needs to be solid, especially as a National Climate Risk Assessment is set to reveal the country’s future climate challenges under different emissions levels.
Kean feels confident despite the pressures. He emphasizes that he hasn’t lost any political connections during this project. “Friends remain friends,” he says, pointing out that tackling climate issues should unite all Australians, regardless of political affiliation.
During his tenure as energy and environment minister, Kean successfully pushed for a significant emissions reduction plan. His approach now aims to create a Climate Authority similar to the Reserve Bank of Australia—an independent body offering reliable advice on climate policy.
Experts commend the Authority’s work. Amanda McKenzie from the Climate Council highlights the extensive engagement the Authority has undertaken under Kean’s leadership. Meanwhile, economist Ross Garnaut expresses confidence in the direction the Authority is taking.
Beyond climate change, Kean is passionate about Australia’s biodiversity crisis. He points out that since 1788, nearly 10% of Australian mammal species have gone extinct—a number that’s alarming. He argues that it’s high time for reforms to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act, suggesting a “climate trigger” be added to address the worsening impacts of climate change.
For Kean, decarbonizing the economy is not just an environmental duty but a moral one for future generations. As a father of four, he has a personal stake in ensuring the planet is a better place for his children. He hopes to leave them an economy that’s even stronger and a planet in better shape than he found it. “This should be something that can unite all Australians,” he believes.
This growing conversation around climate issues resonates strongly on social media, with many users expressing their hopes for a sustainable future. Statistics indicate that a majority of Australians are increasingly concerned about climate change and support ambitious measures to combat it.
For more information about climate action strategies, you can check out Climate Council’s reports for further insight into Australia’s climate policies and their impact.
