Queenslanders to have say on state’s climate change strategy

Queenslanders are being invited to comment on the future of Queensland’s ability to respond and adapt to climate change.

In launching the Issues Paper - Review of the Queensland Government climate change strategy today, Sustainability, Climate Change and Innovation Minister Andrew McNamara said the Issues Paper was a critical proactive step in preserving Queensland from the future likely impacts of climate change.

“Australia is entering a new phase in responding to the challenge of climate change. The ratification of the Kyoto Protocol and the commitment by the Commonwealth Government to introduce an emissions trading scheme (ETS) by 2010 provides an opportunity for Queensland to be part of a proactive national response,” Minister McNamara said.

“We all have a part to play in minimising the impacts of climate change on Queensland, and the Queensland Government is committed to the long term prosperity and futureproofing of the state against climate change.

“This review is a strong opportunity for the Queensland Government to build on the suite of greenhouse gas reduction measures contained in the original ClimateSmart 2050 and to contribute towards achieving the national target of a 60 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions below Australia’s 2000 levels by 2050.

“It is also an opportunity to build upon the ClimateSmart Adaptation 2007–12 action plan, which provides the foundation for building Queensland’s resilience to climate change.

“This Issues Paper is a key step in the review process and seeks to identify relevant issues in each of our major sectors, such as energy, industry, community, planning and building, primary industries, transport, government leadership and ecosystems.

“The review process will provide the Queensland Government with input and ideas on further programs and policy to support reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change.”

Minister McNamara said that Office of Climate Change in the Environmental Protection Agency will consider all submissions made on the Issues Paper during the development of a revised Queensland ClimateSmart Strategy.

“I call on all members of the community, business and industry to read this important document and provide feedback on its content - in particular, on the effectiveness of existing measures, the issues relevant to our major sectors and possible measures to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change.

“All feedback will be considered in the preparation of the revised Queensland ClimateSmart Strategy, due for release in late 2008. I encourage you to provide your thoughts and ideas on these important issues.”

The closing date for submissions is 5pm 27 October 2008. For submission details and information go to www.climatechange.qld.gov.au