The Government’s new emissions targets are a step in the right direction but there is a need to plan for zero emissions by mid-century, according to the Australian Academy of Science.
The Government today announced a new post-2020 emissions target of between 26 and 28 per cent on 2005 levels by 2030.
In a submission to government earlier this year the Academy recommended deeper cuts of 30 to 40 per cent below 2000 levels by 2030.
“Australia needs to be part of the global effort to minimise carbon dioxide emissions and prevent the worst effects of climate change,” said Professor Andrew Holmes, President of the Australian Academy of Science.
“The science tells us that, in the medium term, if we don’t reduce our emissions we will see serious consequences for our planet, our health and our society. That’s why this target needs to be a stepping stone, as part of global efforts, towards a target of zero emissions by mid-century,” Professor Holmes said.
© 2024 Australian Academy of Science
