Palaszczuk Government paving the way for combating climate change

The Palaszczuk Government is leading the way in initiatives to combat climate change, with strong targets to reduce emissions, the $500 million Land Restoration Fund, carbon farming and vegetation management laws.

Minister for Environment Leeanne Enoch today chaired the meeting of the Queensland Climate Advisory Council (QCAC) – a pre-eminent research and social science group that provides expert advice to the Queensland Government on how the state can best respond to climate change.

“The panel discussed how communities and industries can best prepare for climate change impacts, both physical and financial, as weather patterns change and global markets shift in favour of low-carbon industries,” Ms Enoch said.

“At today’s meeting we also provided an update on the Palaszczuk Government’s initiatives to help Queensland address climate change.

“We are currently developing the $500 million Land Restoration Fund, which rewards Queensland landholders and primary producers for reducing emissions and encourages land restoration.

“Last week we also passed landmark laws in Queensland Parliament to end broadscale tree clearing in Queensland, which will help us meet our commitments to reduce emissions.”

Ms Enoch said QCAC included leaders from the private, public and non-government sectors who were best-placed to advise the Queensland Government on how the State can maximise economic and social opportunities associated with transitioning to a low-carbon, climate-ready economy.

“From carbon farming to renewable energy, electric vehicles to advances in agricultural technology and production techniques, addressing climate change could be an economic win for Queensland if we can transition our economy to capitalise on emerging global trends,” Ms Enoch said.

“Queensland has set a target of zero net emissions by 2050 and an ambitious interim target of 30 percent reduction in emissions by 2030, on a 2005 baseline.

“We have also set a renewable energy target of 50% by 2030, which will provide the policy setting for increased investment in industries such as solar, wind and biofuels.

“In the absence of national leadership on climate change, Queensland is stepping up and setting ambitious renewable energy and pollution reduction targets.

“Change is coming, no matter what your personal views are on climate change, and we need to stay on the front foot for the sake of our future safety and prosperity.”

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