Australia’s current policies will only achieve 48% emissions cut by 2035, falling short of its 62-70% target, government projections show
SYDNEY: Australia’s current policies put the country on track to miss its recently established 2035 greenhouse gas emissions target.
The government pledged in September to slash emissions by 62-70% below 2005 levels by 2035.
Official projections released Thursday show emissions would decline by only 48% under currently implemented policies.
“While the 2035 target is ambitious and achievable, it is not yet being achieved,” Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen told parliament.
Bowen said the government would meet the target by implementing, strengthening and building on policy foundations laid over the past three years.
He described the gap between projections and decade-long targets as normal.
“As new policies are developed and implemented, the emissions outlook improves,” Bowen explained. “That’s what a target is for, to drive new initiatives and work.”
The projections excluded recent policies like the “net zero plan” involving low-carbon fuel investments and cleaner manufacturing.
Australia’s Climate Change Authority called this a “critical juncture” in the country’s transition to low emissions.
“To stay on track, the rate of reductions must double in the 5 years to 2030 and triple in the decade to 2035,” the independent advisory body reported.
Australia has invested billions in solar power, wind turbines and green manufacturing while aspiring to become a renewable energy superpower.
The nation remains one of the world’s largest coal exporters and a major liquefied natural gas supplier. – AFP
