Environment
Our climate is changing and we must start taking concerted action now. The Labor Party is committed to ensuring Australians have a sustainable future. We must increase the proportion of our energy which comes from environmental sources, and make genuine attempts to negotiate with the rest of the world to set binding, workable emissions targets.
FAQ
- What is Labor doing for the environment?
The Federal Labor Government has launched the National Carbon Accounting System, which will account for carbon emissions from land-based sectors while tracking reductions of forestry through land clearing. The Government is also investing $2 billion over five years on the Caring for our Country program, which will co-ordinate community efforts to improve land management practices.
NSW has led the world in innovative market-based environmental solutions, including the instalment of one of the world’s first emissions trading schemes, and a new system of biodiversity credits. As a result, our air and beaches are the cleanest they have been in decades. Controlling illegal land clearing in NSW will also ensure Australia meets its Kyoto protocol targets.
- How will Labor’s plan for the environment help?
At a Federal level, the Government has recently announced changes to the Commonwealth's environmental programs, including the new Renewable Energy Bonus and Green Loans Schemes.
A new household Renewable Energy Bonus Scheme
From June 1 2010, the new Renewable Energy Bonus Scheme will help households save money on power bills while minimising the nation’s carbon footprint. Key changes include:
- Households will now receive a rebate for the installation of ceiling insulation or a solar hot water system or a heat pump;
- A new registration scheme requiring installers to register, pay a cash bond, show evidence of meeting the training and skills requirements and provide certified quality assurance and occupational health and safety plans;
- A strengthened compliance regime, in-line with State and Territory occupational health and safety and fair trading authorities
As part of the wider NSW Government's Energy Efficiency Strategy, the Government has launched the Black Balloon campaign to help educate local homes, businesses and communities on how to reduce carbon emissions. More information on the Black Balloon Campaign can be found here www.savepower.nsw.gov.au
- What has Labor achieved for the environment?
Federal Labor understands the importance of tackling climate change. That’s why as his first official act as Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd ratified the Kyoto Protocol. This brought Australia out of the international fringe and demonstrated that we are leaders in practically solving the climate change problem.
The NSW Government has introduced the Greenhouse Gas Abatement Scheme, one of the first of its kind in the world, and one of the strictest and most wide-ranging. It sets annual greenhouse gas reduction targets for electricity producers, and allows for market-based trading.
The previous Premier, Bob Carr, created more than 300 National Parks between 1995 and 2005, expanding many other State reserves to protect forests from landclearing.
The Illawarra Waste Water Strategy, which includes an industrial water recycling programme for BlueScope Steel at Wollongong saving more than 7 billion litres of drinking water a year, has not only saved water but provided more than 1,000 jobs during the design and construction phases.
- How can I be involved?
If you are passionate about the environment you can check out the Labor Environment Activist Network.
- Where can I get more information?
http://www.climatechange.gov.au/
http://www.greenhousegas.nsw.gov.au/