Australia's weak target on carbon emission, a serious blow to its international reputation: de Brum

de Brum was responding to the release in Australia today that it plans to cut carbon emissions by at least 26 per cent of 2005 levels by 2030. 

“As with Prime Minister Abbott’s attempt to ignore climate change when hosting the G20 last year, this will send a serious shudder through the Pacific and raise concern amongst its closest allies, including the United States and Europe.”

“This seems to be another example of Australian exceptionalism when it comes to tackling the biggest economic, environmental and security challenge of the 21st Century. If the rest of the world followed Australia’s lead, the Great Barrier Reef would disappear. So would my country, and the other vulnerable atoll nations on Australia’s doorstep, said de Brum.” 

the outspoken Marshall Islands leader said the world is watching Australia and 'what it decides to do is very important.'

"The emerging economies of the Asia Pacific look to Australia as a sign of the industrialized world’s commitment to take the lead in decarbonizing the world economy.”

“It’s very difficult to understand why a sundrenched Australia needs five years more than the United States to achieve a 26 to 28% emissions reduction.”

“Australia’s own independent Climate Change Authority says a 40 to 60% target for 2030 would be a more responsible contribution to preventing runaway climate change.”

“Delaying the necessary cuts just makes things harder and more expensive. It’s disappointing that the Australian Government can’t see beyond the smoke stacks of the past to the clean, green energy future that the rest of the world is embracing.” 

‘We still have three months to go before Paris. It’s time for all of us to recommit to the very serious task ahead.  The Marshall Islands submitted its own ambitious target last month.  The big emitters will have to re-examine their ambitions if Paris is to be a success, said de Brum.