Labor Sets 2035 Emissions Target: 62-70% Below 2005 Levels
Labor has set a new ambitious target to reduce Australia's greenhouse gas emissions by 62 to 70 per cent below 2005 levels by 2035. This comes as the country has met its previous commitments, including the Kyoto Protocol and the 2020 pledge of 5 per cent below 2000 levels. The party's plan to close the emissions gap involves significant changes to the electricity grid and pushing industries to cut emissions.
Australia's emissions are currently trending downwards, but substantial cuts are still necessary to meet the 2030 and 2035 targets. Achieving net zero by 2050 is theoretically possible, although serious system risks and technological uncertainties make it less likely. The Paris Agreement has increased emissions targets and put pressure on energy prices. Notably, Australia's vast coal and gas exports contribute to global emissions, which are not accounted for in its national ledger. Despite being a small contributor to global emissions at 1.3 per cent, Australia has been committed to reducing its carbon footprint since signing the UN climate convention in the early 1990s and ratifying the Kyoto Protocol in 2007. The government has announced measures to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, including investments in forest restoration and sustainable land management practices.
Labor's new target represents a significant step towards reducing Australia's emissions. While challenges persist, the country has demonstrated its commitment to tackling climate change by meeting previous targets and implementing various measures to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
