Queensland musician Bernard Fanning and his seven year old son are the stars of a new Australian Marine Conservation Society (AMCS) animation to inspire hope in the midst of the climate crisis engulfing Australia.
The former Powderfinger lead singer and his son Fred lend their voices to father and son characters from the future, who look back on how the world was changed for the better because decisive action was taken on climate by Australian politicians.
Set in the year 2030, the characters reflect on how Australia and the rest of the world turned away from fossil fuels, how political leadership grew out of the school climate strikes, and how the Great Barrier Reef was given a lifeline.
The short film was inspired by an AMCS and Climate Analytics report, published last month, which outlined a roadmap for how the Queensland Government can help limit global warming to 1.5C above industrial levels.
Bernard, a long time AMCS supporter, said: “I was moved to play this small role in the animation because it’s obvious we’re at a turning point where the decisions we make today on our energy systems will have a major influence on our childrens’ lives.
“I’ve lived most of my life in Queensland and I know that the place has the brains and the brawn to make good for future generations like my son Fred and his mates.
“And it turns out Queensland also has what it takes to be a global energy leader,” said Bernard.
The Carbon Budget report illustrates the enormous economic opportunities for Queenslanders if we transition swiftly from fossil fuels to renewables, and how this switch will safeguard the future of our Great Barrier Reef.
“I think the film reminds us that our future can be positive, and healthier if Queensland takes decisive action and shows national and global leadership on climate change now.”
The report warned that if Queensland continues to emit carbon pollution from energy use at the same rate as in 2017, the state’s Great Barrier Reef safe carbon budget will be used up in less than 12 years.
Great Barrier Reef spokesperson Shani Tager said Queensland needed to cut energy and industrial emissions by 58% by 2030 (compared to 2005 levels) and reach zero carbon emissions by 2050.
“Queensland is incredibly lucky to have cheap and plentiful solar and other renewable energy resources and infrastructure. We just need the politicians to get on with the job and implement new policies and provide new opportunities so Queenslanders can reap the benefits,” said Shani.
The animation was made by Carlo Scotto and features Bernard’s song Wash Me Clean from his hit album Tea and Sympathy.
