It’s been a precarious time for politics in New South Wales, but here’s a huge silver lining — the NSW Government has committed to a 50% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030! So, how does this new target stack up against other Aussie states and territories? Let’s take a look!
Halving Emissions By 2030 To Reach Net-Zero By 2050
The NSW Government has announced its plans to halve carbon emissions below 2005 levels by 2030 — a strong increase from its previous target of 35%. It’s all part of the state’s broader plan to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.
Establishing a net-zero target — and, more importantly, an ambitious 2030 emissions reduction target — isn’t just good for the planet, it’s great for the economy too!
“Our net-zero plan is expected to attract more than $37 billion in private-sector investment into NSW. This policy is about putting policies in place to give industry and investors certainty, not only to protect our planet but to future proof our prosperity," said Gladys Berijiklian.
NSW Net-Zero Plan Will Support 9,000+ Green Jobs!
Aside from attracting more than $37 billion of private sector investment into NSW, Gladys Berijiklian said the Net Zero Plan will “support more than 9,000 jobs, save households about $130 on their electricity bills, and help NSW become Australia’s first trillion-dollar state by 2030”. She also said that Australia’s most populated state is “serious about setting itself up for the future and helping the world decarbonise”.
Even John Barilaro, former NSW Nationals leader, said that regional communities will reap the rewards of new clean industries as the demand for batteries and hydrogen grows. “We will continue to take action in a way that delivers more jobs and more investment for people in the city and in the bush.”
The Front-Runners In The Race To Net-Zero!
How does NSW’s target stack up against other states and territories? Every jurisdiction in Australia has committed to a net-zero target by 2050 — but let's look at their 2030 targets.
There’s one state that’s way ahead of the pack, can you guess which it is? That’s right, it’s Tasmania! Amazingly, Tassie has already achieved net-zero emissions and 100% renewable energy, with plans to hit 200% renewable electricity by 2040.
The ACT is working towards a 65% cut to emissions by 2030 and net-zero by 2045, and SA is already more than 50% of the way to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. VIC has established a 45-50% target by 2030, and QLD has committed to just 30%. At the back of the pack is WA with a 26-28% target, and then NT, who doesn’t have an interim target.
Will The Federal Government Adopt A Net-Zero Target?
There’s one thing for sure — this new target set by the NSW Government will place increased pressure upon the Morrison Government to establish a net-zero target by 2050, and a stronger 2030 target.
The Federal Government’s existing 2030 target, a 26-28% cut in emissions, has been criticised for being too weak. Many are calling for a new target of 50%. Even Matt Kean, from the Liberal Party, is urging the Commonwealth to get on with it.
Currently, Australia and Singapore are the only countries in the world without a net-zero pledge. It’s believed that Prime Minister Scott Morrison is “warming” to the idea.
We’re thrilled to see the NSW Government adopt a stronger 2030 emissions reduction target! The entire state will benefit from the growth of low-carbon technologies and green jobs — especially in regional areas, which have been historically coal-dependent. Now, we’re waiting on the Federal Government to signal its support for a net-zero target, and hopefully, a stronger target to reduce national emissions by 2030.
For more updates on state and federal climate policies, check out our Eco News category and the blogs below.
G7 Nations Agree To End Support For Coal
