Australia beats 2020 emissions target

The Australian Government has copped criticism for not doing enough about greenhouse gases, but the latest data is encouraging.

Australia has recorded its lowest level of greenhouse gas emissions since 1998, as it beat its 2020 target, according to new figures.

The June quarterly update of emissions released today shows that from 2013 to 2020 Australia released 459 million tonnes less greenhouse gases than its target for the period.

A statement from Energy and Emissions Reductions Minister Angus Taylor highlighted that the falls in 2019-20 emissions were “due in large part to significant structural declines in emissions from the electricity and agriculture sectors”.

Australian greenhouse gas emissions have fallen to their lowest level since 1998.

Reduced transport activity during the COVID-19 economic slowdown also contributed to the fall but were partially offset by the resilience of the export and industrial sectors.

Mr Taylor said Australia was continuing to beat its targets and was on track to meet its emissions goals for 2030 under the Paris Agreement.

“When we make commitments, we meet and beat them,” he said.

“We beat our 2020 target by 459 million tonnes and we’ll meet and beat our 2030 Paris target.

Energy and Emissions Reductions Minister Angus Taylor says Australia will meet its emissions targets under the 2030 Paris Agreement.

“We’re rolling out the investment and support for new technologies that will see Australia meet and beat its emissions reduction commitments while also cutting energy prices and creating jobs.”

Emissions in 2019-20 dropped to 513.4 million tonnes which was 3 per cent below the previous year.

It was the lowest level recorded in Australia since 1998 and nearly 17 per cent below 2005 levels, which are the baseline year for the 26-28 per cent Paris 2030 target.

Liquid fuel consumption plunged 17 per cent in the June quarter during the worst of the COVID lockdowns, according to the report.

Emissions per capita have fallen nearly 45 per cent below 1990 levels while the emissions intensity of the economy was 64.7 per cent below 1990 levels, according to the report.