2023-11-30
The ACT Government continues to make significant progress in effectively reducing greenhouse gas emissions in 2022-23, which is highlighted in two new reports.
Minister for Water, Energy and Emissions Reduction Shane Rattenbury said the results outlined in his 2022-23 Annual Report under the Climate Change and Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act 2010 and the ACT Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Report 2022-23 show the ACT continues to be a global leader at taking action to address climate change.
“The ACT has laid the foundations for a clear path forward on climate action, and we’re making great strides down this path,” Minister Rattenbury said.
“Since 2020, the territory has been powered by 100 percent renewable electricity and emissions have been brought down to 47 percent below to what they were in 1990.
“We have significant strategies in place that will help us meet our long-term emission reduction targets, including the ACT Climate Strategy 2019-25, the Living Infrastructure Plan, and the Zero Emissions Vehicle Strategy. We have also released the Integrated Energy Plan Position Paper which outlines our clear objectives in transitioning away from harmful fossil fuel gas to an electrified Canberra. There has been strong community and industry engagement on the consultation process, and the Government is now working to finalise the Integrated Energy Plan.
“There is still much work to be done to achieve the goal of net zero emissions by 2045. This year’s Greenhouse Gas Inventory shows a reduction in emissions from fossil fuel gas combustion, but an increase in transport and aviation emissions.”
“The ACT Government is committed to reaching our own target to make all Government operations net zero by 2040. A lot of progress has been made in the past year which Canberrans can be proud of. This includes 12 electric buses introduced into Transport Canberra’s fleet with 94 more to come by 2026, and an all-electric hospital building in Woden which is a first for a cold climate city in the southern hemisphere.
“We have also committed $70 million in the latest budget to electrify government owned and operated buildings.
“The targets we set are not without challenges. It is important that governments around the world set ambitious targets to make necessary progress in achieving a sustainable future,” said Minister Rattenbury.
To find out what you can do to help take action on climate change in the ACT, or to read the 2022-23 Minister’s Annual Report or the ACT Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Report 2022-23, visit the Everyday Climate Choices website.