LEADERSHIP FROM STATES and territories on renewable energy has helped drive down Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions, but scientists say we need to do much more to tackle intensifying climate change.
The Federal Government’s latest emissions data shows that the rollout of renewable energy has continued apace. Along with COVID and the continued effect of the drought, this rollout has seen a big drop in overall emissions in the 12 months to June 2020.
“Every state and territory in Australia has committed to a net zero emissions target and most have clean recovery plans to get their economies back on track, create new jobs and lower power bills,” said the Climate Council’s CEO, Amanda McKenzie.
“In contrast, the Morrison Government has no credible climate or renewable energy policy. The progress we are making belongs to the states and territories, which are showing real climate leadership. But we are still far from where climate science says we need to be – and that is costing Australia,” she said.
“With the third mass bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef in five years, prolonged drought and the Black Summer fires, it is time for the Federal Government to put its money where its mouth is and start investing in renewable energy,” said Ms McKenzie.
“The good news is it looks like the Federal Government is starting to see that renewables and energy storage technologies create jobs and huge opportunities for Australians,” she said.
“Until we are doing everything we possibly can to avert the climate crisis; then we are not doing enough,” said Ms McKenzie.
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