Labor’s Climate Bill, to be debated in Parliament today, is a starting point but must build in capacity for much stronger emissions reduction efforts to ensure a safer climate future, says Greenpeace Australia Pacific.
Introducing the Climate Bill yesterday Climate and Energy Minister Chris Bowen reinforced his government’s commitment to reach 82% renewable energy by 2030.
Greenpeace Australia Pacific CEO David Ritter said that the Climate Bill, while a useful foundation, must include capacity to significantly ratchet up Australia’s emissions reduction over the coming years.
“This Climate Bill is just the starting point. Climate science demands that we must urgently reduce emissions to protect Australians and safeguard our future. While this bill lays a foundation, it must also enable a huge increase in Australia’s emissions reduction over the next few years to safeguard our country against worsening climate disasters,” he said.
“Australia must replace coal with renewable energy by 2030 and cut emissions by 75 per cent from 2005 levels. That means no new coal and gas projects, and ramping up renewable energy. This will protect our country and region from worsening climate impacts, and enable Australia to realise the enormous benefits and opportunities in the global renewable transition.”
“It is our sincere hope that political parties of all stripes, as well as independents, work together to bring about a safer climate future for Australia.”
Greenpeace Australia Pacific calls on the government to:
- Rule out further public subsidies for fossil fuel projects and infrastructure that are fuelling the climate crisis.
- Develop and implement a detailed plan to get to 82% renewable energy in the National Electricity Market by 2030, allowing scope to increase ambition as required.
- Tackle Australia’s escalating transport emissions by introducing fuel efficiency standards and developing a national clean transport strategy.
