Some Australian states have committed to 100% renewable energy targets, or even 200% renewable energy targets. But this doesn’t mean their electricity is, or will be, emissions free.
None of Australia’s highest-emitting energy firms are fully or even closely aligned with global climate goals. Just one goes even partway, and five appeared to be taking no action at all.
The opportunity won’t last forever. Countries that move first will gain an advantage in new industries, technologies and export markets. Those that wait may never catch up.
A report from top energy analysts warns that to meet the Paris climate agreement goals, investment in new unabated coal plant projects should stop now.
Jennifer Curtin, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau; David Hall, Auckland University of Technology; Michael Fletcher, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington, and Nina Ives, Auckland University of Technology
By under-promising and over-delivering, Grant Robertson has pulled off a budget that displeases the fewest people.
Government-owned firms are often branded as uncompetitive, stuck in the past and unable to truly innovate. But they’re sometimes better suited than private firms to drive new, clean technologies.
A global energy authority created a roadmap for the world to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. Meanwhile, Australia committed $600 million for a major new gas plant.
Sam Crawley, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington
Vested interests have lobbied against climate policy worldwide, but that’s only one reason for the slow political response. While most people want climate action, they rank other issues as more urgent.
Recent wildfire seasons have been worsened by climate change. But wildfires also lead to additional climate warming when they release carbon dioxide to the atmosphere.