The Australian Government will consider the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s report as part of our ongoing review of our country’s contribution to global action on climate change.
The Morrison Government is committed to the Paris Agreement and takes its international obligations seriously.
While Australia contributes only around one per cent of global emissions, we will deliver on our commitment to reduce emissions by 26 to 28 per cent of 2005 levels by 2030.
Australia’s emissions intensity is at its lowest level for 28 years.
The report was requested by parties to the Paris Agreement, including Australia, to provide the IPCC’s assessment of the latest available science on impacts of a 1.5°C global warming scenario (on pre-industrial levels) compared with a 2°C scenario.
The 600 page report covers all aspects of climate change policy, including the science, impacts and mitigation and we will consider its detail carefully.
We’re particularly concerned about the implications for coral reefs, with the report finding climate change will impact reefs across the world, including Australia.
More than ever this report shows the necessity of the Morrison Government’s $444 million investment in the Great Barrier Reef’s management.
Our investment will specifically address key areas for action identified by the Reef 2050 Plan.
I want to reassure Australians that, in the International Year of the Reef, the Morrison Government prioritises action over words. International efforts to reduce global climate change, combined with action at national and local levels to build the resilience of the Reef by reducing impacts, is the best insurance for protecting the Reef.
IPCC Reports are designed to inform policy makers, but without being policy prescriptive. The Australian Delegation at the meeting in Korea consisted of officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Department of the Environment and Energy.
