Page 4660 - Week 11 - Tuesday, 19 October 2010
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On the question of what is an appropriate reduction, 10 years ago a 30 per cent emissions reduction target was appropriate. Today it does not represent the contemporary science. The IPCC reports have consistently found that increased action is required and that the level of urgency is greater than previously understood. Our understanding of the impacts of climate change increases almost daily. We must also respond to the science and recognise that it may well be the case that even more urgency than is provided for in the 40 per cent target may be required. Of course, 40 per cent is a good start. It is an ambitious target that will see significant and very positive changes in our community.
Human ingenuity knows no bounds. I am reminded of this every time I read about the amazingly energy efficient houses being built here in Canberra. I heard the other day that the coldest it has been in Canberra’s sustainability house in Ainslie this winter is 18 degrees, with absolutely no heating whatsoever. The hottest it got last summer, I think, was around 25 degrees, with no cooling whatsoever.
It is now possible to buy an Australian-made electric car. The ANU is developing world-leading solar energy generation technology. And the implementation of the feed-in tariff has seen the number of PV panels on Canberra roofs grow exponentially. ACT schools teach our children about the impacts of climate change, and in many ways these children have been community leaders in encouraging sustainability initiatives that reduce our emissions and demonstrate how easy it is to have a positive impact.
The point that I am making is that Canberra is ready for this. This is something that we can achieve and be very proud of. We have come to a point now where almost everyone in the community wants change. Businesses can see how having a positive environmental impact can also have a positive economic impact. The Canberra Business Council have been very strong advocates for both light rail and high-speed rail in Canberra, two very important transport initiatives that will reduce our emissions, promote positive economic activity and make Canberra an even more liveable city.
The proposed emissions reductions will significantly change our economy. As much as it will be a challenge, it will also be an enormous opportunity. Countless experts have said that those who act first will not only do it at the lowest cost, but also will enjoy the greatest benefits.
The ACT can be a green economy of the future. We are well positioned to start the transition for existing industries and to develop new, green, clean technologies for export to the rest of the country and the world. Green jobs are the future. As long ago as 1990, the United Steelworkers union in the US declared:
… the real choice is not jobs or environment. It’s both or neither.
Australian workers unions see this too. The union movement have been calling for action on climate change, for a strategic and steady shift away from polluting industries, and for the resources and education opportunities for people to learn new
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