Victoria aims for zero greenhouse gas emissions, Daniel Andrews says
Daniel Andrews’ goal will come with its challenges given most of Victoria’s power is generated by brown coal.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has declared that the state will aim to emit no greenhouse gas emissions by the middle of the century.
Mr Andrews said this morning that the state government would legislate a series five year targets, with the overall aim of no net greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
The goal will come with its challenges given most of Victoria’s power is generated by brown coal, which is a higher emitter than black coal.
Mr Andrews said that Victoria was leading the nation on reducing carbon emissions.
“Updating our laws and introducing a target to reduce emissions in Victoria will ensure we take advantage of the new jobs and economic opportunities created by renewable energy,” Mr Andrews said.
The targets are in response to the 2015 Independent Review of the Climate Change Act.
As well as an official target, the Andrews government will introduce a pledge program for the private sector and community organisations.
This will encourage businesses and other organisations to publicly commit to and support the government’s emissions targets.
Victoria’s Climate Change Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said the government would work with the private sector to reach the target.
“We are taking decisive action because we know that climate change is real and we ignore it at our peril,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.
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