Climate Change & Fires
Australia is in a unique position to save the planet.
Our actual emissions are only a tiny percentage of those globally. But when you factor in the coal we export, we are the 5th worst country. If we choose to stop exporting coal, the price goes up, it becomes less viable (it already almost is), and the flow-on effect could be enormous. Jobs are not a valid argument – we will find other jobs, because we always have, despite numerous industries disappearing.
We can afford it. We are effectively the richest country in the world, currently, by many measures. We are much more ready for a harder future than most/all western countries, because of recent investments in infrastructure.
We are being affected. Some countries, for example Tuvalu, are bracing for a much worse future that hasn’t arrived yet. Australia is already suffering, through droughts and the flow-on effects of fires (that literally destroy communities) and loss of food production. And we help feed the planet
We will
- rapidly phase out coal exports and fossil fuel use in Australia – call it saving coal for a rainy day if you wish
- push for stronger commitments from other nations
- prepare for the worst
If we act and other countries don’t try hard enough, things are potentially going to get much worse.
We will
- take a proactive approach to things becoming worse – see here for more details
- using more expensive options than back-burning (which is currently often unable to be done), now
- start training professionals and investing in more equipment now
- implement a federally funded relocation system for anyone who loses a home
- restrict new building in fire-prone locations. Fire-proofing new homes doesn’t appear to be working
- fund an implement a return to Aboriginal land management techniques