Climate scientists reacted with deep dismay today as Nationals Leader David Littleproud made the ridiculous statement this morning that "there's a way to tackle climate change rather than net zero".'
Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie urged Mr Littleproud to urgently accept briefings from leading climate scientists and emergency service experts, after he said on ABC Radio National that net zero was "not the only solution".
Ms McKenzie said cutting climate pollution was literally the only solution to the climate crisis: "Climate experts are ready and willing to brief Mr Littleproud on this issue anywhere, anytime," she said.
"We hope David Littleproud doesn't continue to bury his head in the sand and takes the opportunity to get informed on one of the biggest risks to our community."
"Net zero is simply a goal to reduce climate pollution over the next 25 years."
"Cutting climate pollution is the only way to solve the climate crisis. The burning of coal, oil and gas is driving the problem – there is no other magical solution than cutting the source of the problem."
"At this stage this is weaponised incompetence. Deliberately ignoring reality for political points and peddling climate denial.
"If we don't continue to cut climate pollution the flooding in Taree, Grafton and Lismore will become more and more frequent and damaging. Marine heatwaves will cause the terminal decline of the Great Barrier Reef."
