UN Urges Australia to Boost 2035 Emissions Target Amid Climate Risks

Simon Stiell, the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change executive secretary, has urged Australia to adopt an ambitious emissions reduction target for 2035, warning that settling for a less ambitious goal would be a missed opportunity to lead in clean energy and economic growth. Speaking at a Smart Energy Council event in Sydney, Stiell emphasized that Australia should "go for what’s smart by going big" and avoid a "bog-standard" target, highlighting that the upcoming decision is a defining moment for the country's climate strategy. Despite Australia’s strong pro-transition government and plans for 82% low-carbon generation by 2030, experts project the country will fall short due to insufficient funding, grid delays, and policy rollbacks. Stiell noted that doubling down on clean energy is an economic no-brainer that could create jobs, secure economic stability, and maintain regional influence, while failure to act risks eroding living standards and destabilizing nearby Pacific and Southeast Asian nations. The Climate Change Authority has suggested a target between 65% and 75% emissions reductions by 2035 compared to 2005 levels, but Australia’s allowance for continued fossil fuel projects, including a gas plant running until 2070, has drawn criticism. Stiell warned that unchecked climate change could cripple Australia’s food production and result in trillions in GDP losses by 2050, urging the government to deliver a bold and comprehensive climate plan.