PERTH (miningweekly.com) – The federal government will introduce the Climate Change Bill 2022 into Parliament to enshrine the nation’s commitment to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions by 43% below 2005 levels by 2030, and net zero by 2050, into law. 

Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen said that legislating targets provided the strongest possible signal to industry and investors of Australia’s collective commitment to decarbonising the economy and becoming a renewable energy superpower. 

It also helped to restore Australia’s international reputation, positioning Australia to capitalise on the opportunities arising from global climate action.

The legislation has four key elements, including tasking the independent Climate Change Authority to provide advice on Australia’s progress against targets, and to advise on new targets under the Paris Agreement which will include a 2035 target, embedding the nation’s targets in the objectives and functions of a range of key government agencies, and requiring Bowen to report annually to Parliament on progress made in meeting the targets.

“We went to the election promising to reduce emissions by 43% by 2030, we were given a mandate and now we are delivering,” Bowen said.

“This Bill confirms our commitment to ambitious but realistic targets supported by Australia’s states and territories, business, industry, unions, environmental and community groups, and provides a platform for collaboration to drive down emissions while ensuring reliable energy supplies.

“The Bill makes it clear that 43% is our minimum commitment, and does not prevent our collective efforts delivering even stronger reductions over the coming decade. The current issues confronting Australian and global energy markets highlight why this long-term commitment is so important.

“The government is giving the Parliament the opportunity to end the climate wars. We encourage members of Parliament to support this Bill and signal our shared national commitment to responsible climate action.”