12 December 2019
Interim pollution target welcome but more is required for real climate action
The NSW Government’s target of reducing the state’s carbon pollution by 35% on 2005 levels by 2030 is a step in the right direction but needs to be more ambitious to get the state to becoming carbon neutral by 2050.
“Setting an interim target is a great step towards developing a strong plan for reducing emissions,” Nature Conservation Council Chief Executive Chris Gambian said.
“The Premier and Minister have been strong advocates within the government for developing a serious response to the climate emergency, and we welcome their leadership.
“A 35% reduction in emissions on 2005 levels won’t get us to where we need to be, but we are ready to work with the government, business, unions and the community to come up with plans that meet the enormity of the challenge.
“The truth is we need to meet Minister Kean’s target and then dramatically exceed it if we are to do our share of the emissions reduction task.
“We’re glad there is a Liberal government prepared to own up to the fact that climate change is a problem that needs to be solved and they have set some targets to get towards the long-term goal of 100% by 2050.
“If we want to save the things we love from climate devastation, we need to achieve more ambitious interim targets.
“And there are huge opportunities if we step up to the challenge. Thousands of new jobs and opportunities for the economy if we choose to become a green energy superpower.
“Today, 80% of our domestic energy comes from burning coal. We need to get that number to zero by 2030. And we have to do it in a way that looks after workers and their communities.
“We can do it, and we are willing to work with the government to get there.”
References
[1] NSW to commit to new emissions targets for 2030, SMH, 12-12-19
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Climate and energy
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