Greens around the world have lambasted revelations that Australia has vetoed Paris Agreement climate goals being included in a trade agreement, and that the UK acceded to those demands.
But it's not just progressive voices: UK Tory Lord Deben, who heads up an independent climate advisory body, decried Australia as "one of the recalcitrant nations" on climate action.
In defense of Australia's position, Dan Tehan continued to beat the drum of technology that will prolong the reign of fossil fuels in Australia: gas and coal-derived hydrogen, carbon capture and small nuclear reactors.
With COP26 (the 2021 UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow) fast approaching, it suggests Australia will continue to resist international pressure and seek once again to veto global climate action.
As stated by Greens leader Adam Bandt MP:
"Australia is lagging behind the UK, US and the European Union on climate, and now we're dragging the rest of the world down with us.
"Refusing to sign the United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement if it included climate goals shows just how far the Liberals are willing to go to placate their fossil fuel donors.
"Australia has sabotaged global climate talks in the past and Scott Morrison looks set to do the same at the Glasgow climate summit.
"With disaster after disaster unfolding across the world we need strong climate action before 2030, but instead Australia is gearing up to veto action at the Glasgow climate summit."
The Greens' Climate Policy:
- Net zero emissions by 2035 and 75% cuts by 2030, consistent with the science and the independent Climate Targets Panel.
- Lead the world on climate action by phasing out coal stations and exports by 2030 and legislating against new coal mines and gas fields.
- Achieve 100% renewable energy by 2030 and work towards 700% renewables, funding a massive investment in infrastructure that will transform our energy system over the next decade and grow a new export industry.
- Phase in 100% electric light vehicle sales by 2030, with subsidies to make them affordable for all
- Reduce bills by $200 a year by creating a publicly owned energy provider and subsidising investment in solar power and batteries.
- Build a multi-billion dollar clean energy export industry to replace coal exports.
- Invest in local coal and gas communities so they can attract the jobs and new industries they want, retain, upskill and ensure these local communities can continue to thrive.
