Page 3796 - Week 12 - Wednesday, 22 November 2006
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about forestry. The Greens have built their reputation on issues such as forestry. One would think they would have some questions prepared that attempt to critique the federal government’s performance in this area.
I want to move on and make some reference to the Stern report, which has had considerable media coverage around the world in recent weeks. The report examined the impact of global warming on economic output until the end of the century. It warns that global warming could cut the world’s annual economic output by as much as 20 per cent, potentially triggering the worst global recession in recent history. The report casts doubt over the readiness of government jurisdictions worldwide to face up to their financial responsibilities in combating climate change. The previous Liberal government’s environment policy was shouted down by this territory government as too expensive, yet Mr Stanhope’s new greenhouse strategy, which promised to tackle issues such as climate change, is still to be released.
The economic impacts of global warming have been made apparent in the ACT, courtesy of the drought that has recently been declared. Recent reports that the earth may be close to the warmest it has been in the last million years are likely to serve as a precursor to soaring energy demand and associated costs as communities seek to cope with dramatic changes in weather patterns. Environmental policy for governments at all levels and of all persuasions must recognise the adverse impact the dramatic changes in weather patterns will have on energy usage and the financial impact of those demands on residential, industrial and commercial users of energy resources. That is why we must work at that level, despite the view of the green movement, to engage our communities in practical and real measures that can assist in addressing these issues.
Whilst many might consider that the ACT is only a bit player in the global energy stakes and the efforts to reduce greenhouse gases, every community must play its part in the effort to curb greenhouse gases. The likelihood that demand for energy and water resources will continue to increase represents a significant cost for end users. It is incumbent on governments to work with their communities to find more efficient ways of using energy and living normal lives without experiencing escalating costs to do so.
I had the privilege—and I thank the Chief Minister for facilitating this—of recently attending a briefing with Mr Costello of Actew Corporation and his executives. A detailed analysis was presented to me on the way in which Actew Corporation are addressing future issues of water, the methodology they are employing and the research that is contemplated to be published in the middle of next year. I would urge my colleague from the Greens to seek a similar briefing. I have always thought that you are better to get the facts right and then you do not make a fool of yourself when you come out and make public comment on things because of poor information.
I found the frankness with which Actew Corporation responded to questions from me and my advisers helpful. I have a much clearer understanding of the options that are being contemplated, including those in relation to dams down the track. I understand the rationale of why they are setting the deadlines they are. I am certainly looking forward to seeing what the outcomes of the CSIRO’s revisiting of those assumptions will produce in the next six months.
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