Federal Labor’s climate policy represents an important step towards cleaning up Australia’s energy sector, the Australian Conservation Foundation said today.
Federal Labor’s climate policy represents an important step towards cleaning up Australia’s energy sector, the Australian Conservation Foundation said today.
“ACF welcomes Labor’s commitment to a cleaner future for Australia’s energy sector,” said ACF’s CEO, Kelly O’Shanassy.
“Around 75 per cent of Australia’s domestic climate pollution relates to energy – either our production or consumption of it.
“Pollution from old energy sources, especially coal-fired power stations, is driving global warming, which threatens Australia’s environment, communities and economy.
“This policy includes measures to close dirty coal-fired power stations, build new clean energy, clamp down on land clearing and seriously invest in energy efficiency.
“This announcement recognises the need for government to lead this process, supporting new investment and job creation and managing the transition for workers and communities who will be affected by changes.
“ACF welcomes Labor’s target for zero net emissions by 2050, although the interim target to cut pollution by 45 per cent by 2030 (from a 2005 baseline) should be stronger.
“But even Labor’s interim target is a significant leap forward from the Turnbull government’s plan to cut pollution by 26–28 per cent by 2030, which leaves Australia with one of the weakest targets among developed nations.
“All parties will need to go further if we’re going to protect Australian communities from worse droughts and bushfires and give the Great Barrier Reef a genuine chance.
“ACF is disappointed Labor’s policy does not rule out new coal mines. If one particular proposed coal mine – Adani’s massive Carmichael project – proceeds, it will create billions of tonnes of pollution, contributing massively to climate change.
“Cutting pollution from coal-fired power stations and coal mines, and supporting clean energy, should be key issues for all parties at this federal election,” she said.
