Australia’s Climate Crisis: Albanese Unveils ‘Responsible’ 2035 Emissions Target – But Is It Enough?
- Australia aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 62-70% on 2005 levels by 2035
- PM Anthony Albanese says target is ‘right’ for the environment, economy, and jobs
- Environmentalists and business groups react to the announcement, with some saying it’s not ambitious enough
- Australia’s climate change authority recommended a range of 62-70% after months of deliberation
The Australian government has finally announced its long-awaited climate target, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese revealing a plan to slash greenhouse gas emissions by 62-70% on 2005 levels by 2035. The target, which was accepted by cabinet, is based on the advice of the Climate Change Authority and is seen as a crucial step towards reducing the country’s carbon footprint.
“It is the right target to protect our environment, to protect and advance our economy and jobs, and to ensure that we act in our national interest and in the interest of this and future generations,” Albanese said in a statement. “This is a responsible target supported by science and a practical plan to get there and built on proven technology.”
However, not everyone is convinced that the target is ambitious enough. Environmentalists and some business groups have been calling for a more aggressive approach, with some arguing that a 75% reduction is needed to meet the challenges of the climate crisis. “We will not pretend that some sort of figure over 70 with no evidence or no modelling or no advice is achievable is a sensible ambition for this country to go after,” said Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen.
The government has also announced a new $5 billion National Reconstruction Fund program to help industry decarbonise, as well as an extra $2 billion for the Clean Energy Finance Corporation and $40 million for more electric vehicle charging stations. Treasury modelling suggests that a 65% target would grow the economy by $2.2 trillion by 2050, make every Australian $36,000 wealthier, and create 5.1 million jobs.
But the opposition has been quick to criticise the government’s plan, with Opposition Leader Sussan Ley saying that the target “fails on both counts” of cost and credibility. “The government must be upfront about the cost of meeting these targets,” she said.
The announcement comes as the country grapples with the devastating impacts of the climate crisis, including heatwaves, droughts, and rising sea levels. A recent report warned that 1.5 million people could be at risk from rising sea levels and heat-related deaths could surge if global heating rises above 2C.
As the world watches Australia’s progress on climate action, one thing is clear: the country’s future depends on its ability to reduce its carbon footprint and transition to a cleaner, more sustainable economy. But is the government’s new target enough to meet the challenge?