PRIME MINISTER SCOTT MORRISON is once again planning to dodge Australia’s responsibilities as a big polluter, with reports he will avoid signing up to a global agreement to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.
Media reports today suggest the Morrison Government will instead adopt a technology investment target arguing it will naturally lead to emissions reductions.
“This is magical thinking on the part of Morrison. Companies will simply not invest in new technology without policy direction,” said Climate Councillor and former head of BP Australasia, Greg Bourne.
“The direction has to be reductions in emissions, not a politician’s promise to have anyone but the Government invest,” he said.
“Australia’s international reputation has been tarnished by our government’s poor record on climate action. We cannot turn up to the United Nations climate summit in Glasgow in November with more dodgy tricks,” said Mr Bourne.
“After this horrific bushfire season, Australians want to see clear, credible action on climate change, which means urgently reducing our emissions,” he said.
“Let’s not forget that Australia is a major polluter. We are one of the world’s biggest exporters of coal and gas. If we do not act, then why should anyone else?” said Mr Bourne.
“Cleaning up our energy system, electrifying our transport, tackling industrial emissions are all vital steps,” he said.
“We have the technology, we have the solutions to fix this. Renewables coupled with energy storage can take us to a net-zero future, and can do so at a fraction of the price of polluting fossil fuels,” said Mr Bourne.
For more information please contact Senior Communications Advisor, Lisa Upton on 0438 972 260 or Communications Officer, Brianna Hudson on 0455 238 875.
—
The Climate Council is Australia’s leading climate change communications organisation. We provide authoritative, expert and evidence-based advice on climate change to journalists, policymakers, and the wider Australian community.
For further information, go to: climatecouncil.org.au
Or follow us on social media: facebook.com/climatecouncil and twitter.com/climatecouncil