With the recent announcement that Western Australia is striving to deliver on its carbon neutrality promise by 2050, businesses and the general public are preparing to work towards a greener and more sustainable future as we await further information.
Western Australia has the largest land area in Australia that heavily relies on high-emitting industries, which is why the goal of net zero emissions is so advantageous. We have delved into the net zero targets to help us understand how this change will affect us.
What is Net Zero, and Why is Western Australia Aiming For This?
Net Zero refers to a balance between the level of greenhouse gas produced and removed from the atmosphere. Net zero is achieved when the emission level added is the same as the amount taken away.
Western Australia is a recent addition to the net zero 2050 target, joining the likes of the United Kingdom, France, Denmark, Spain and Luxembourg in this pursuit. This commitment has been welcomed by the Climate Council with emissions needing to stop for considerable change to occur.
What we Know
The legislation is expected to go before parliament later in the year, with a 2030 greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 80 per cent below 2020 levels. By setting an ambitious target for reducing emissions, the State Government of Western Australia (WA) is displaying responsible leadership and sending a clear message to businesses and industries that prioritising climate action and emissions reduction is crucial.
Significant changes will need to be made for Western Australia to meet this target, as greenhouse gas output has increased by 4% compared to 2005, making WA the only state to have an increase in emissions. Factors contributing to this figure include the area's heavy reliance on high-emitting industries such as mining, making a plan of action even more crucial.
How Will Net Zero Affect Businesses?
Transitioning to net zero is challenging for some industries, and it is best to start looking into these changes sooner rather than later. Whilst it will take time to reach your goals, there are many benefits you can consider and enjoy when you reach them, from leveraged resilience to reducing fuel costs.
Looking at ESG strategies to identify the best ways your business can positively touch on sustainability whilst continuing to grow is an excellent way to implement a proactive approach that contributes to Western Australia’s net zero targets.