Is COP26 a boon or bane for Australia? 

Highlights

• The COP26 climate summit is focused on global climate action to cut carbon emissions.
• The cornerstone of the COP26 summit is to bring parties together to pace up measures towards the objectives of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement.
• Despite many environmental impacts, Australia is heading forward at a very slow pace in combating the damage or taking actions.
• COP26 will be the right stage to highlight the Australian government’s actions in combating climate change.

The borderless climate crisis has brought together nations and organisations to fight the battle. Among the several initiatives across the world making climate change as its global priority, COP26 is an epoch-making platform.

The 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) is being hosted by the United Kingdom in Glasgow, Scotland. The conference, which commenced on 31 October, is scheduled to take place till 12 November 2021.

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Uncovering COP26 and its prominence

The cornerstone of the COP26 summit is to bring parties together to pace up measures towards the objectives of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement. As COP26 Presidency, the United Kingdom is coordinating with different countries to develop an understanding on how to fight against climate change with every party in unison.

Is COP26 a boon or bane for Australia?

During the 12-day Scotland summit, COP26 will be drawing in expertise from the “Friends of COP.” It includes countries from six continents, such as France, Barbados, Chad, Australia, India, and Peru.

The annual conference includes global leaders as well as government representatives, businessmen, negotiators, and citizens, who will be advising the UK government on tackling climate change.

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A quick glance at Australia’s role in the global battle

Along with several other nations, Australia is experiencing severe impact of unpredictable weather and the resulting disasters, such as bushfires, floods, erosion, and drought. Yet, Australia is heading forward at a very slow pace in combating the damage or taking actions.

In 2021’s Sustainable Development Report, Australia ranked last among 193 UN member states for climate action. Moreover, the per-capita carbon emissions of Australia are highest compared to any OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) member country.

Australia’s global commitment of net-zero emissions by 2050 seems all the more gruelling now as it demands shift from fossil fuel industries. Australia’s economy receives major contribution from fossil fuel exports, especially coal exports. The coal exports from the country add about AU$50 billion every year to the national income. Any decision in the direction to phase out coal production or exports will have an adverse impact on capital from the fossil fuel industry.

Apparently for economic reasons, the federal government has shown clear inclination towards coal exports. It has disregarded the fact that it is a major source of carbon emissions and causes devastating impact on the global climate system. Thus, bringing in criticism from global leaders and prominent organisations.

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For its apparent inaction or delayed response, Australia has garnered much denunciation from across the globe. It has been given bad press for having exploited fossil fuel resources as well as for its constant failure in decreasing carbon emissions.

Australia can make the best use of the global summit COP26 to underline the initiatives and leads achieved so far in keeping global temperature rises below 1.5 degree Celsius. CoP26 will be the right stage to highlight the government’s actions in combating climate change.

Read More: Scott Morrison rejects 'reckless' climate action

Australia as one of the “Friends of COP26”

Australia is one of the countries joining COP26 for adaptation actions in the face of changing climate. The Australian government will announce its new National Climate Resilience and Adaptation Strategy (NCRAS) at the COP26 summit.

The strategy has been orchestrated to form a national framework that works in greater collaboration with the private sector to mark down the concerned projects. The projects which cater to long-term goals, ensure improved climate information services, and encourage practical initiatives, will be identified to protect Australia’s environment and its economy.

Australia will present its NCRAS at COP26 alongside its first international Adaptation Communication, which brings forward the country’s momentous climate adaptation action.

Another significant move in the direction is execution of its National Hydrogen Strategy. The hydrogen strategy explores the country’s clean hydrogen potential. Moreover, it mulls future scenarios with several growth possibilities, includes showcases from each state and territory, and outlines an adaptive approach that equips Australia to scale up quickly. Additionally, the strategy details nationally coordinated actions involving the industry, governments, and communities. Thus, setting a vision for a clean, safe, and competitive hydrogen industry.

Related Read: Aussies’ concerns for climate change at peak; not keen to use coal and gas as fuels