The Australian Government has released the March 2024 Quarterly Update of Australia’s National Greenhouse Gas Inventory, which shows Australia’s overall emissions are continuing to decrease.
It shows that in the year to March 2024, 440.2 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions were recorded. This is 2.7 million tonnes or 0.6% lower than the year to March 2023 and reflects more reliable renewables coming online.
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Emissions in the March 2024 quarter were impacted by warmer than average temperatures leading to increased electricity demand, while the amount of renewable energy increased to reduce the emissions-intensity of electricity generation.
Australia’s overall emissions are now estimated to be 28.2% below the year to June 2005.
This decrease is expected to continue, with preliminary estimates for the year to June 2024 down 0.9% or 3.8 million tonnes lower than the same period last year.
Australian Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen, “The latest inventory shows our Reliable Renewables Plan is working but after a decade of denial and delay we must continue to drive action across all sectors of the economy.
“The Albanese Government is embracing the economic opportunities of a net zero economy while making a practical difference to reduce emissions including through a bolstered Safeguard Mechanism and New Vehicle Efficiency Standard.
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“Australia is lucky to be one of the sunniest places in the world, with some of the best solar and wind resources—harnessing them will ensure the clean, cheap, reliable and resilient energy system that Australians deserve.
“The Albanese Government’s policies, including our Capacity Investment Scheme, Safeguard Reforms and New Vehicle Efficiency Standards, as designed to accelerate emissions reductions to achieve our 43% target by 2030.”
