Western Australia’s peak conservation group has urged the McGowan Government to follow the lead of Queensland and other states in adopting a zero carbon pollution target for WA, in line with the Paris international climate change agreement.
The Palaszczuk Government today announced its climate change policy ‘Pathways to a Clean Growth Economy’ which establishes targets and pathways to transition the Queensland economy to low emissions and renewable energy.
The key elements of the Queensland Government policy include:
- Powering Queensland with 50% renewable energy by 2030
- Reducing carbon pollution to at least 30% below 2005 levels by 2030
- Achieving zero net emissions by 2050
The adoption of a zero climate pollution target by 2050 brings Queensland in line with other states such as South Australia and Victoria.
CCWA Director Piers Verstegen said the McGowan Government should follow the lead of Queensland and other states in delivering action on climate change and renewable energy here in WA.
“If Queensland can do it, then WA certainly can. We have world class renewable energy resources and industry ready to invest, but we currently lack the policy framework to support this transition.
“The Barnett Government’s ‘do-nothing’ approach on climate change must come to an end. It is no longer acceptable to ignore the reality of climate change and to deny our fair share of the global responsibility that has been established in the Paris climate agreement.
“A lack of leadership from Government means we are missing out on jobs in renewable energy technology and manufacturing, carbon farming, and other industries that would get a major boost from strong action on climate change.
“We call on the McGowan Government to follow the lead of other states and establish targets for zero carbon pollution to provide clarity to all sectors who have a role to play as part of this transition.”