The Conservation Council of WA has responded to the Federal Government's 'net-zero by 2050' announcement following the unveiling of Australia's much anticipated plan, which will be presented to COP26 by the prime minister, Scott Morrison.
The announcement came after protracted talks between the Liberal and National parties with the latter agreeing to support the government targets - in principle - on Sunday.
The minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions - Angus Taylor - claimed Australia's track record on climate was "a proud one" and highlighted a "portfolio of technologies" which he claimed can help reduce Australia's emissions.
The government has said that its plan will rely on technologies, 'not taxes' to reach the net-zero target but has not yet produced any carbon emissions modelling. Mr Morrison said the modelling would be made available 'in the coming days'.
Maggie Wood, Executive Director of CCWA, said: "This announcement is no real cause for celebration. The federal government is getting away with doing the bare minimum on emissions and – frankly – these targets are too low, too little and too late.
“The writing is on the wall for coal and gas. Yet, we have federal and state governments that are signing off new coal mines, new gas plants and giving wholesale approvals to decades of carbon pollution. This isn’t just short-sighted; it is completely out of touch with the scientific consensus and the need to avoid irreversible damage to our climate.
"Australia is better placed than most to take advantage of the enormous opportunities for jobs and investment in renewable energy. At present Australia is poorly equipped to cope – let alone thrive – in a post-carbon economy."
ENDS
MEDIA INFORMATION: The Conservation Council of WA (CCWA) is the state’s foremost non-profit, non-government conservation organisation representing more than 100 environmental organisations across Western Australia.
CONTACT: For any enquiries relating to this release, please contact Robert Davies on 08 9420 7291 / 0412 272 570 or by email, [email protected]