The Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) has today called on the Federal Government to commit to an ambitious target of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2035.
In a new position statement, the organisation which represents nearly 900 of Australia’s most distinguished engineers and applied scientists, recommends immediate, substantial and concerted action to rescue the dwindling window for limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
ATSE President, Dr Katherine Woodthorpe, said the Academy is calling for a national effort across all Australian sectors, governments, and industries to set an ambitious benchmark for innovation which will equip the nation to become the renewable energy superpower it aspires to be.
“The science is unequivocal; the climate induced catastrophes are irrefutable,” she said.
“ATSE calls for leaders across every Australian sector to join us in making Australia a frontrunner amongst global peers, in setting an ambitious target of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2035.”
“This science-based target will set a critical benchmark for Australian action, incentivising investment and giving a clear signpost to industry and governments to drive rapid deployment of existing and mature low-carbon technologies, as well as rolling out emerging technologies and exports.”
The position statement also calls for a national net zero emissions policy and implementation framework that prioritises the challenge and addresses the opportunity to transform Australia’s economy.
“We congratulate the Federal Government on the significant progress to date. However, we are making up for lost time and the pace of our low-carbon transition today, determines our tomorrow,” Woodthorpe said.
“Setting an ambitious target, based on science, which will act as a lightning rod for urgent government, industry and academic collaboration, is a no regrets step toward a net zero future.”