Emissions projections show NSW needs to redouble climate efforts to meet targets
The latest NSW emissions projections confirm expectations that more needs to be done in NSW to meet emissions reduction targets.
The update to the NSW Emissions Dashboard shows the state is expected to deliver 44% to 50% reduction on 2005 levels in 2030, and 65% to 70% by 2035. Projections are presented as a range to reflect the uncertainty of the forecast over the long term and across many sectors.
This update is a revision down from the last figures released, reflecting the challenges in decarbonisation efforts across sectors.
The projections are based on data from 2022 and 2023 which has been analysed by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water to predict future trends in greenhouse gas emissions. This data is used to monitor and disclose progress towards achieving New South Wales's targets and will be the data used by the Net Zero Commission.
The NSW Government recognises action on climate change is urgent and has commenced rolling out a suite of measures to ensure NSW meets its now-legislated targets.
Measures include:
- Implementing the Climate Change (Net Zero Future) Act 2023 which legislated emissions reduction targets of 50% of 2005 levels by 2030, 70% by 2035 and Net Zero by 2050 across government.
- Establishing the independent Net Zero Commission to monitor, review, report and advise on progress towards these targets.
- Working across government and with key sectors to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Utilising the Climate Change Fund for decarbonisation efforts and focusing grants programs on decarbonization activities.
- Prioritising the Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap as a whole of government priority.
- Updating the Net Zero Plan.
- Implementing the EPA's Climate Change Action Plan including the Greenhouse Gas Guidelines to inform planning processes.
New South Wales will increase efforts to limit sources of emissions and identify greenhouse gas emissions abatement opportunities in key sectors, to ensure New South Wales remains on track to achieving its targets.
Quote attributable to Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe:
'These figures from late 2023 show the extent of the challenge we face to reach our 50% reduction target by 2030.
'The NSW Government is determined to meet the legislated targets and is taking a range of actions to ensure New South Wales reaches those reduction milestones.
'Across government we are redoubling our efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in all sectors. It will require a focus on policies, progress and government investment. This work is already underway.'
