Colin Packham

CANBERRA (Reuters). Despite being a long-standing critic of Australia’s coal and gas production, the country said that its goal is net zero carbon emission by 2050. However, it did not specify how it intends to do this and will instead rely on companies and consumers for reductions.

International criticism will be lessened by the adoption of this target. Australia had previously refused to sign on to countries that pledged to reach the target before the United Nations COP26 conference in Glasgow, Oct. 31-Nov. 12.

Scott Morrison, the Prime Minister of Australia, said that Australia will be one of the top emitters of greenhouse gases per capita in the world. Technology development is key to achieving the goal. With the government spending A$20 million ($15 billion), Scott Morrison stated.

He stated that the investment would lower costs for technologies like clean hydrogen, and will increase their usage.

Morrison is currently in an impasse over climate change. As he enters an election to be held by May, Morrison needs support from rural voters who are against reducing carbon emissions. However, a large portion of Australia’s population would like more action.

On Monday, a widely-viewed poll showed Morrison on track to lose to Labor’s centre-left party.

Morrison attempted to minimize any impact on domestic jobs and industries as a consequence of the reduction in emissions Tuesday.

Australians demand action on climate change. They’re taking action on climate change, but they also want to protect their jobs and their livelihoods. They also want to keep the costs of living down,” he told reporters in Canberra.

“I also want to protect the Australian way of life, especially in rural and regional areas. The Australian way of life is unique.”

Morrison said that Australia won’t increase its 2030 emissions reduction target by 22-28% from 2005 levels, but added that it looks like the country will cut emissions by between 30-35%.

Critics claimed Morrison’s plan was weak and did not adequately prepare the Australian economy to adapt to a fast-changing world.

“Unless the government sets the wheels in motion to cut our emissions in half by 2030, it is making climate change worse and turning its back on the opportunities,” said Kelly O’Shanassy, chief executive officer of the Australian Conservation Foundation.

Australia cannot continue to rely on gas and coal exports. These industries will soon disappear and workers who aren’t able to help with this transition won’t be able support them.

Morrison was unable to get support from the National Party (his coalition partner), for his net zero goal. The National Party has an agricultural and mining-reliant regional power base.

On Sunday, however, the party indicated that it supported a net-zero target. According to Australian Financial Review, this agreement provides for an increase in regional infrastructure expenditures and tax incentives for carbon farm income.

($1 = 1.3398 Australian dollars)