Australia’s net zero commitment at COP26
Prime Minister Morrison unveiled Australia’s plan to achieve net zero emissions during the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) held in Glasgow in 2021.
The plan emphasised a "technology not taxes" approach, focusing on leveraging low emissions technologies rather than imposing heavy regulations on industries. It included commitments to invest in renewable energy and gas-fired recovery strategies, aiming to position Australia as a leader in low-emission technology solutions across the Indo-Pacific region.
During COP26, Prime Minister Morrison reinforced Australia's position that the country would not phase out coal or gas production and exports. He maintained that Australia would pursue its own path towards net zero by 2050 while ensuring no job losses in key sectors such as farming and mining. This underscored a balanced approach between protecting Australia’s sovereign economic choices and environmental responsibility.
COP26 provided a platform for Australia to showcase its existing efforts in emission reductions, which had seen a decrease of approximately 20.8% from 2005 levels by 2021, surpassing reductions achieved by several other major commodity-exporting nations.
To act on Australia’s commitments, the Morrison Government established various domestic programs aimed at enhancing climate resilience and adaptation. These included investments in renewable energy projects and initiatives designed to support communities vulnerable to climate impacts. Read more here.
Related media:
1. Speech, National Statement at COP26, 01 November 2021: https://pmtranscripts.pmc.gov.au/release/transcript-43640
