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Australia’s climate target sparks debate over ambition and realism
The Australian government has unveiled a new climate target for 2035 that seeks to balance political and social expectations. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 62% to 70% compared with 2005 levels, describing it as both ambitious and realistic.
The plan, based on recommendations from the Climate Change Authority and its chair Matt Kean, adopts what some observers have called an “Oprah-style” approach, offering something for nearly everyone. The lower end of the range is likely to satisfy industry groups that oppose deeper cuts, while the upper end gives a nod to environmental organizations pressing for more aggressive action.
Despite this, critics argue that the minimum target falls short of what scientists say is necessary to keep global warming below the 1.5°C threshold set by the Paris Agreement. Independent experts have warned that Australia should commit to at least a 75% cut by 2035, if not more, to do its fair share.
Challenges such as delays in renewable energy rollout and slower-than-expected progress in green hydrogen development have tempered expectations. The authority projects that renewables could supply up to 93% of electricity by 2035, but it remains cautious about wider economic and social feasibility.
Climate advocates insist that deeper reductions are technically possible today, especially in areas like electrification and energy efficiency. However, political analysts warn that pushing too fast could provoke backlash, undermining long-term climate policies.
For now, Australia positions itself between economic pragmatism and environmental urgency—striving to maintain credibility on the global stage ahead of COP29 in Baku later this year.