Merri-bek City Council signed on to the Better Futures Australia open letter calling on Scott Morrison to commit to credible climate targets in line with our allies, and to do our fair share under the Paris Agreement.
We joined a community of some 96 climate leaders, across every corner of society, who collectively represent more than seven million Australians and $220 billion in GDP. United in a common cause, and showcasing the readiness of Australians to act on climate now.
Ready to become a renewable energy superpower
The signatories to the letter are ready to work with the federal government to transition from fossil fuels in a fair and orderly way that leaves no one behind. Builds a thriving economy, sustainable jobs and cohesive communities, enjoy flourishing ecosystems, clean air, and better health, and take advantage of our opportunity to become a renewable energy superpower.
Need to a emissions reduction target for 2030
The absence of a national zero emissions target is out of step with the States and Territories, our trading partners, and other nations. It is insufficient to meet the Paris Agreement goal of keeping warming to 1.5 degrees.
The United States will halve its emissions by 2030, Japan will reduce emissions 46% by 2030 on 2013 levels, and the UK will cut emissions 78% by 2035. The European Union will reduce emissions 55% by 2030 on 1990 levels. Our major trading partners South Korea and China, have mid century net zero targets.
The shift from fossil fuels is inevitable, and the momentum unstoppable. Without further ambition, Australia will face isolation and diminishing markets for its resources. Carbon border adjustments will harm Australia’s economy, as other nations seize the opportunities of the zero-carbon age.
The time to act is now.
