The recent federal election has done very little to end Australia’s climate wars.
Not only is Labor fighting to retain the carbon tax (even in the form of an Emissions Trading Scheme) but the Greens are looking at ways to discredit and remove the government’s policy alternative, the $3.2 billion Direct Action plan.
A Fairfax report has revealed plans by the Greens for a Senate Inquiry to test Coalition claims made in the policy.
Specifically, Direct Action claims it can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by five per cent through a program of planting trees and paying polluters to cut emissions - this will be tested.
The public hearings would include expert evidence from scientists, economists and industry and according to the draft terms of reference would test whether Direct Action has the capacity to meet international obligations regarding
a global limit on a temperature rise of no more than 2 degrees.
It’s a bold move by the Greens with the Fairfax report claiming that Labor is planning to support calls for the Inquiry.
It’s just more ammunition in a climate war that looks set to continue next year and possibly the year after. Clearly, the politics of pollution is here to stay.
Despite all of the political posturing the government is busy looking at the most effective way to draft the Carbon Tax Repeal Bill.
As part of the consultation process the government has met with the HVAC&R community and is taking industry concerns into consideration.
There is a full timeline of the repeal bill process in the December edition of CCN Magazine which is out now.
Before returning to the climate battlefield in 2014, I hope everyone enjoys a period of peace over Christmas.
Renew the spirit by enjoying the holidays with your loved ones and let’s pray for a prosperous 2014.
Happy holidays and until next year, stay safe.