NSW Greens call for zero net emissions by 2040 for state

The NSW Greens have challenged Premier Mike Baird to adopt what would be a nation-leading climate policy, with a target of zero net emissions by 2040, in a climate bill introduced into state Parliament on Thursday.

As well as the ambitious emissions target – one the Greens say is merely in keeping with the level of action needed to limit global warming and avoid the most dangerous impacts – the Greens’ Climate Change Bill 2015 would require governments to develop four-year plans for emissions reductions and climate change adaptation.

It would also ensure every department and council was taking action consistent with addressing climate change, with legal action possible to prevent decisions and actions that would undermine the state’s action on climate change.

“I’ve introduced legislation that would commit current and future governments in New South Wales to strong action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and prepare for the impacts of climate change,” said the Greens’ Jan Barham.

Barham says the bill challenges the NSW Premier to show the climate leadership that is lacking in Australian politics, even under the new leadership of Malcolm Turnbull.

“Despite knowing about the growing risks of climate change for more than 25 years, too many governments have squandered their opportunities to act. Continuing with weak national targets will increase the threat to future generations unless the states take responsibility to act now.

“Malcolm Turnbull has committed to maintain the weak and ineffective policies of his predecessor. As it stands, Australia will be seen as a developed country that does not have the courage to make decisions in the best interests of its citizens,” she said.

“Mike Baird can change the conversation by acknowledging that our state can make the transition away from fossil fuels and toward a zero emissions future, consistent with international agreements and the scientific evidence.”

Barham also noted that a NSW Government submission to the federal consultation on post-2020 emissions targets, obtained under freedom of information laws, showed the importance of addressing climate change for the future of the state.

“The NSW Government’s own analysis recognised that without significant emissions cuts, climate change will have very significant impacts on farming, tourism, on communities across the state and on human health and emergency services,” she said.

“This Bill presents the opportunity for innovation, and to ensure the health and wellbeing of the environment and the people as we prepare for an uncertain future.”

The ACT is well on track to meet its first legislated emissions target of 40% below 1990 levels by 2020, largely through major investments in renewable energy, with 40MW of solar and 200MW of wind capacity already secured under its innovative reverse auction system.