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Climate Change
Climate change is the most serious environmental problem facing the world. Leading international scientists agree that human activity is disrupting the planet's climate systems. Fossil fuels, used for energy and transport, are major contributors to the problem. Without significant action to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels we will cause catastrophic damage to Earth’s ecosystems, triggering social and economic upheaval.
Past fossil fuel use will continue to cause problems for decades to come but there are steps we can take today to reduce long-term damage. Everyone needs to play a part - from businesses through to individuals, families and communities, and government must show leadership. But the federal government and vested mining interests are taking Australia in the wrong direction.
Instead of propping up old polluting energy sources like coal-fired and nuclear power, we need to make Australia a low carbon economy, to place Australia on a sustainable footing for the future. You will find information and resources on these campaign pages to help you play a part in making this happen.
It’s time to get serious about climate change. The Australian government should take immediate measures to reduce greenhouse pollution, including:
- Capping national emissions and establishing an emissions trading scheme;
- Setting a national standard for new electricity generators to ensure investment in clean energy and rule out polluting coal;
- Increasing the contribution of new renewable energy in Australia from less than 2% to 10% by 2010;
- Setting an energy efficiency target and implementing projects that save both energy and money; and
- Investing in safe, clean and reliable public transport.
Polar Bears Vulnerable
For the first time in history, the majestic polar bear, the world’s largest land-based carnivore, has been listed as a ‘vulnerable species at risk of extinction’ by the World Conservation Union (IUCN).
Global warming is melting the Arctic ice that polar bears depend upon for survival. If this ice continues to melt at current rates, the polar bear could be extinct by the end of the century.
Think about this more, view our animation here.
See Also:
Christine Milne on Rudd's Emissions Trading Scheme
Electricity industry 'must pay own way' - The Age
Climate Change - Latest Content
Wong wrong to give up on Lower Lakes
Greens Senator for South Australia Sarah Hanson-Young has challenged Federal Minister for Water Penny Wong's claim that there is not enough water to save the River Murray's Lower Lakes.
"The water is there, but evidently the political will to fix this disastrous situation isn't," said Senator Hanson-Young.
Rudd must end destruction of Australia's biggest 'Green Carbon' banks, native forests - Greens
The Australian National University's report on the role of natural forests as Australia's biggest carbon banks underscores the horror of logging in an age of climate change, Australian Greens Leader Bob Brown said today.
