CLIMATE COUNCIL has responded to reports of a new Business Council of Australia (BCA) report with a call for more BCA members to join 500 businesses already backing a stronger 2035 climate target for Australia that will unlock investment and jobs, and secure us all a safer future.
Media reports out today indicate that the BCA understands that stronger national climate action can unlock investment, create jobs, and drive future competitiveness and prosperity.
This aligns with recent modelling of the costs and benefits of climate action by Deloitte which found that a 75% emissions cut by 2035 can leave Australia $370 billion better off and create 69,000 jobs.
Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie said: "Forward-looking BCA members Leadlease, Fortescue and Atlassian, as well as 500 other businesses, have publicly backed a stronger 2035 climate goal to protect Australians from worsening climate harm, and build a prosperous, clean economy for the future."
"Economic modelling consistently shows that stronger climate action will drive more jobs and private investment in the Australian economy."
"BCA members – like Telstra, Woolworths, Coles, Rio Tinto, AGL, IAG, Commonwealth Bank and EY – have made promises to their staff, customers and shareholders to pursue climate action. We encourage these businesses to go further, put their money where their mouth is and publicly support a stronger 2035 climate target."
"There's a tidal wave of support across the Australian community urging the Prime Minister to take stronger climate action, from community groups, scientists, unions, investors and business. This is reflected in polling that shows seven in 10 Labor voters want the government to set a strong target.
"Australian's are deeply worried about escalating extreme weather events, the destruction of the Great Barrier Reef and the environment we love. Setting the strongest possible climate target will help protect our kids' future, while a timid target will expose them to escalating risks.
Spokespeople available:
- Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie
- Independent economist and Climate Councillor, Nicki Hutley
- Former BP Australasia President and Climate Councillor, Greg Bourne
