VICTORIA has released new emissions reduction targets today, with a commitment to reduce emissions by 75% to 80% (on 2005 levels) by 2035 and net zero by 2045. It also includes a renewables target of 95% by 2035.
The Climate Council has welcomed the plan, saying Australians will win from a race to the top on strong climate action.
Climate Council Head of Advocacy Dr Jennifer Rayner said the plan shows considerable promise.
"Victoria is the second big state in just the last few weeks to announce major new plans to cut harmful pollution and drive the transition to zero emissions, and Victoria's clean energy target puts it at the front of the pack for the big states.
"There is a real sense of momentum now towards a clean future in Australia. The race to net zero is one every Australian can cheer on.
"The further and faster states go on reducing emissions, investing in clean energy technologies like renewables, storage and energy efficiency and phasing out fossil fuels, the more benefits they'll unlock. That's why it's essential we keep pushing towards deep cuts in emissions this decade.
"This plan puts Victoria in a prime position to tackle climate change. A 95% renewable energy target signifies the end of coal powered generation in the state. Energy companies clearly know that time is up for coal, as we've seen recently with the announcement of the early closure of the Loy Yang pollution bomb.
"Right now Victorian communities are either recovering from, or bracing for, a major flooding disaster. All weather events are occurring in a warmer climate, which is supercharging disasters and reducing the time communities have to recover. Fossil fuels are to blame. The faster we can limit emissions, the better.
"It is absolutely critical to take decisive action to reduce emissions as soon as possible to put the brakes on warming, and we welcome this new race to the top from Australian states and territories to do it."
To meet the urgency of the climate crisis and in line with the science, the Climate Council recommends that states and territories reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 75% below 2005 levels by 2030 and aim for net zero by 2035.
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The Climate Council is Australia's leading community-funded climate change communications organisation. We provide authoritative, expert and evidence-based advice on climate change to journalists, policymakers, and the wider Australian community.
