The National Party of Australia has unanimously agreed to abandon its net zero emissions by 2050 commitment.
Leader David Littleproud said party wasn’t denying the existence of climate change or refusing to curb greenhouse emission, but would instead focus on climate adaptation instead of solely focusing on reducing emissions.
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Littleproud said Australia’s emissions reduction efforts should be matched to the OECD average, which he said was about half that of Australia’s current trajectory.
The Nationals’ proposed model would set an “aspiration” to reduce emissions by 30-40% by 2035—a dramatic drop from the federal government’s commitment to cut emissions by 62-70%.
The Nationals now face discussions with Coalition partner the Liberals to consider their joint position on emissions reduction and responding to climate change.
The parties officially split in May for the first time since 1987 following failed negotiations over their stance on nuclear power.
Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen said the Nationals had “betrayed” regional Australia with their net zero decision.
“We know regional Australia has the most to lose from the impacts of climate change … and regional Australia has the most to gain from taking action,” Bowen said.
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“Renewables are not only keeping the lights on as ageing coal plants retire, but they’re creating jobs and new revenue right across regional Australian communities.
“Farmers are earning a significant income stream from hosting renewable energy projects alongside existing farming activities.”
