Queensland risks getting left behind as other states move forward with emission reduction targets says the Australian Marine Conservation Society (AMCS).
Reports today state that bushfire-choked New South Wales will cut greenhouse gas emissions by 35% by 2030 while Queensland currently has a target of 30% emission reductions by 2030.
AMCS spokesperson Shani Tager says: “Queensland needs to lift its game and lift its targets to give our Reef a fighting chance.
“Prompted into action by the climate emergency engulfing NSW, the Berejiklian Government is taking a step in the right direction and it’s time Queensland did too.”
The Climate Analytics report on a Queensland Carbon Budget shows that emission reductions of at least 60% are needed in Queensland to do our part in limiting warming to 1.5 degrees.
“Queensland is custodian of the Great Barrier Reef and our state needs to lead on cutting carbon emissions,” Ms Tager added.
“The Palaszczuk Government has said that protecting the Reef is one of their six priorities, now is the time to back that up with real action in cutting emissions.”
“Our beautiful Reef supports over 64,000 tourism workers and brings billions into our state and national coffers yet it’s all on the line unless we start tackling climate change.”
