Australia sets out ambitious emissions target

The Australian Government has committed to reducing carbon emissions levels by 43 per cent by the end of 2030, pledging to a more aggressive approach in fulfilment of election promises.

Premier Anthony Albanese and Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen announced on 16 June that the Labour Government has officially submitted its emissions reduction target to the United Nations (UN).

The new announcement comes after the previous Conservative Government was voted out at the 21 May elections after failing to provide a concrete plan to tackle climate change issues. Its seven-year-old pledge to reduce emissions by only 26 per cent had been deemed too weak by the public.

Australia is one of the world’s largest exporters of coal and liquified natural gas. The previous Government has been accused of falling behind compared to wealthy countries in combating climate change. The United States has committed to reductions of between 50 per cent and 52 per cent by 2030, while Britain has pledged to cut emissions by 68 per cent.

When Parliament resumes on 26 July, the new Australian Government will seek to enshrine these targets in legislation. The Prime Minster has set out a plan to create more than 604,000 jobs and spur AUD$76 billion (£44 billion) of investment on the way to cutting down emissions.

The new objective has received support by business groups, labour unions, and environmentalists across the country.

“Updating Australia’s 2030 emissions reduction target is a promise our Government made to the Australian people,” said Prime Minister Albanese.

“The new target reflects my Government’s resolve to urgently step up the pace of action, and work alongside global partners and particularly with our Pacific family, to tackle the climate crisis and keep 1.5 degrees within reach.”

Learn more: Australian Government – Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources