On 15 December 2008, the Australian Government announced its emissions reduction targets - an unconditional commitment to a 5% reduction in CO2 emissions from 2000 levels by 2020, with a commitment of up to a 15% reduction if other developed countries agreed to similar cuts.
Emission reductions of even 15% will not be enough to prevent dangerous climate change. At that level it is quite possible that within our lifetimes we will see the Greenland and West Antarctic icesheets melt (leading to sea level rise measured in metres), the death of the Great Barrier Reef and the displacement of tens of millions of people.
If the government will not commit to taking decisive, inspiring action then we must. Personally reducing our carbon emissions as much as possible and encouraging others to do the same is the best response to the government's disappointing action.
So ride your bike, switch to green power and ask your friends and family to join the North Brisbane CRAG!
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Hey Omar,
Unfortunately, if the federal government's proposed Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme goes ahead, there is effectively a 'floor' below which we will not be able to reduce emissions. Any reductions made by households, will actually free up permits for others (e.g. heavy polluters), and in effect subsidise them by reducing their costs. For more info see here: http://www.greenlivingpedia.org/CPRS
This sucks! We must make this well known & fight the government on this perverse & ridiculous proposed legisation.
Cheers,
Shaun Murray
Westside CRAG
crags@westnet.com.au
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