CLIMATE CHANGE STATEMENT CONFIRMS CRYSTAL CLEAR NEED FOR RAPID DECARBONISATION

WWF-Australia has welcomed the sense of urgency and commitment to action in the Australian Government’s annual climate change statement.

Federal Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen delivered the statement to federal parliament today, warning that extreme weather events caused by climate change will place increased strain on Australia’s energy network.

“Today’s statement confirms what the climate science makes crystal clear - rapid climate action this decade is crucial to protect Australian communities and nature from the escalating and dangerous impacts of climate change,” said Ariane Wilkinson, WWF-Australia’s Senior Manager - Climate and Energy Policy.

“It can also be the key to Australia’s future economic prosperity, unlocking clean jobs and new clean industries.”

Ms Wilkinson said it was encouraging to see improved projections for Australia meeting its 2030 emissions reduction commitments under the Paris Agreement.

“If Australia is going to meet its international obligations, we now need to see further investment and policy support for rapid decarbonisation to beat those 2030 targets,” she said.

“We also need to set an ambitious 2035 emissions reduction target, and get to net zero as soon as possible, and before 2040.” 

Ms Wilkinson said WWF-Australia welcomed the government's reaffirmed commitment to becoming a renewable energy superpower in today’s statement.

“Stepping up to the opportunities in clean exports through further investment and the right policies will help Australia replace fossil fuel exports and phase out our significant exported emissions,” she said.

Ms Wilkinson also called for Australia to stand with leaders of the Blue Pacific in supporting the Port Vila call for a just transition to a fossil fuel free Pacific.

“Pacific leaders need countries like Australia to support their adaptation and resilience efforts, but they also need us to listen to their calls to tackle the root causes of climate change,” she said.

“We call on the Australian Government to show its commitment to addressing what is acknowledged in today’s statement as “the single greatest threat to the livelihoods, security and well-being of the peoples of the Pacific” by supporting the actions set out in the Port Vila call including a just and equitable phase out of coal, oil and gas.”