Why Climate Action is Crucial for Our Nation’s Future: Insights from Fremantle Shipping News

Let’s start by honoring the Gadigal people, the traditional owners of this land. Their connection to the land reminds us that caring for our environment is crucial today.

It’s a privilege to be here for the Talbot Oration, especially the first since Professor Frank Talbot’s passing last year. Frank was passionate about climate change, and I want to continue that conversation. Scientists have warned us for decades: too many greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane are heating our planet. The weather is becoming more unpredictable and extreme. We can’t ignore this reality anymore.

This issue isn’t new. The greenhouse effect was first explained back in 1824, just a few years before the Australian Museum opened. Australia is especially vulnerable to climate impacts. Taking bold steps to replace fossil fuels isn’t just good for us; it can also help other countries transition to cleaner energy.

There are huge opportunities ahead. As climate scientist Joelle Gergis pointed out, we are the last generation that will experience the world as we know it. Think about the Great Barrier Reef or unspoiled natural areas. They could be lost forever if we don’t act now.

Recent flooding in Taree, which was once a rare event, shows how quickly things are changing. We’ve seen similar devastation in Queensland and faced storms further south than usual. The Federal Treasury estimated that the economic toll from these events alone is around $2.2 billion.

Globally, we’re witnessing unprecedented climate changes. In 2023, the world broke its annual heat record, only for it to be topped in 2024. According to the World Meteorological Organization, there’s an 80% chance that one of the next five years will break this record again. We’ve entered a period of persistent warming.

While we have time to turn things around, we must act urgently. The Paris Agreement aims to keep warming below 2 degrees Celsius. Achieving this goal requires immediate action.

So, what can we do? As writer Rutger Bregman said, “great movements start with a dream.” We need to ignore the naysayers who want to upkeep the fossil fuel industry. Climate change deniers are shifting their arguments from scientific denial to economic concerns. They suggest that fighting climate change could hurt the economy. But even diplomats, like Brazil’s Andre Correa do Lago, argue that tackling climate issues can benefit both people and the economy.

Australia is vying to host the next climate summit, COP31, which could raise our engagement in environmental discussions. By engaging different political groups and fostering common interests, we can progress on climate action.

Investors are ready to fund green initiatives, but we need to pick up the pace. Global carbon emissions continue to rise, although there’s some positive news: China may have reached its peak emissions as they shift toward renewable energy. Renewables are becoming more attractive for investments as fossil fuels wane.

Over the past decade, global spending on clean energy technology has reached approximately $9 trillion. However, the adoption rate for renewables needs to grow faster. Innovations, like the solar cells developed by Australian researcher Martin Green, could inspire new advancements. The cost of solar has dropped dramatically, making it more accessible for households and businesses. In Australia, over one-third of homes have solar panels, showcasing our leadership in renewable energy.

While solar and wind energy are key, we need improved storage solutions, such as advanced batteries. Recent drops in battery prices indicate that cost-effective storage can be a reality soon.

As we explore these options, government efforts are critical. Projects to improve energy efficiency in new buildings can help us meet goals like sourcing 82% of power from renewables by 2030. But we need to combat obstacles, such as slow approvals and outdated regulations. Dr. Gabrielle Kuiper notes that smaller businesses could significantly contribute to this goal.

There’s untapped potential in commercial and industrial rooftops that could generate substantial electricity. With the right policies, we can help businesses and homeowners take advantage of these resources.

To support transition, we need policies that help families and businesses adopt renewable energy. Governments must actively engage with large-emitting industries, including steel, cement, and farming, to boost green initiatives.

Countries like Australia can lead the world in green energy and achieve remarkable environmental progress. Consider the efforts of historical movements for social change—small victories can lead to monumental shifts. Communities moving from fossil fuels must be included in new economic opportunities.

In closing, institutions like the Australian Museum illustrate our hope for a sustainable future. As we face climate consequences, we not only need solutions to cut emissions but also to adapt to new realities. The technological advances in renewable energy are promising. If we stay committed and optimistic, we can secure a thriving planet for future generations—one with vibrant ecosystems and safe homes.

Ultimately, our goal is to leave the world better than we found it, ensuring that future generations can marvel at our planet’s natural beauty—one that Frank Talbot and so many others envisioned.

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