Australia Officially Just Committed To Cutting 43 Percent Of Emissions By 2030
"After a decade of denial, we must end the climate wars."
Following through on his recent election promise, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has officially committed to cutting 43 percent of Australia’s carbon emissions by 2030.
The pledge made to the United Nations today brings Australia’s emission reduction targets formally in line with the Paris Agreement, and follows years of criticism from international climate bodies that have previously condemned Australia as being a climate change ‘holdout’.
“When I’ve spoken with international leaders in the last few weeks, they have all welcomed Australia’s changed position,” Albanese said in a statement today.
In a post on Twitter, the Prime Minister also reassured the public that the new emissions target was developed in conjunction with business, union, and environmental groups, and will see Australians benefit from the lower prices of renewable energy.
Australians will benefit from the lower power prices of renewable energy.
Australian businesses benefit from having the certainty to invest. pic.twitter.com/z3QuX6KL1Q
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) June 16, 2022
While Australia’s new emissions target has been described as “ambitious” by the UN, it has been criticised by The Climate Council who say that Australia’s emissions target pales in comparison to those of strategic allies like England and Japan.
“It is very promising to see a ‘National Transition Plan’ on the table and a stronger 2030 target from the Albanese Government. But it will need to be strengthened significantly to effectively tackle climate change and protect Australians into the future,” Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie said in a statement.
“The solutions to the climate crisis and the energy crisis are one and the same. A lot more renewable power and storage to reduce energy prices, reduce pollution, and protect Australia from global energy price shocks.”
The agency has previously warned the Australian government that the lion’s share of emission reductions must be made this decade to avoid significant environmental damage.
The emissions target will officially be enshrined in legislation when Parliament resumes on July 26.