The latest quarterly Australian emissions data shows that climate pollution has dropped due to a decline of coal in the energy system as it is superseded by renewables, which Greenpeace Australia Pacific says shows the need for faster coal closure timelines.
AGL Energy’s Loy Yang A coal-burning power station
The data reveals that a decline in coal production and ongoing emission reductions in the electricity sector has contributed to a decrease of 2.1 per cent in the year to June.
Glenn Walker, senior coal campaigner at Greenpeace Australia Pacific, said that closing coal-burning power stations by 2030 is the fastest and most effective way for Australia to drive down emissions.
“Coal-burning power companies like AGL are being pushed out of our electricity system by cheaper, cleaner renewables, and we’re seeing our emissions drop as a result,” he said.
“This drop in emissions is happening in spite of Federal Government attempts to stall or block climate progress, as businesses, states and territories get on with the job of transitioning our energy system to renewables.”
“The window to tackle the climate crisis is closing fast, and Australia needs to do more, faster. Closing coal-burning power stations by 2030 and replacing them with renewable energy backed by batteries is the fastest and most effective way for Australia to avoid a climate catastrophe.”
“Wind, solar and batteries are already powering the country, and the Federal Government must prioritise investment in these proven renewable powerhouses, rather than waste taxpayers’ money on fantasy technology like carbon capture or dirty gas.”
The quarterly emissions data comes as a new report from WWF Australia reveals that the Federal Government lags behind all states on renewable energy action.
