The IPPC international scientific monitors states overwhelming consensus to radically cut fossil fuels – otherwise irreversible tipping point to the destruction of human life on earth. Will COP31 humiliate Australia on the global stage into action?

Image Credit: David Jackmanson

Scheduled for November 2026, COP31-referred to as the “Climate Olympics” – Australia is bidding to co-host the 31st UN Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP31). This significant event brings together global leaders, experts, and activists to address climate change, assess progress, and negotiate strategies and agreements , and set targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Türkiye (formerly Turkey) has also put in a bid. The Announcement of the successful bidder will be later in 2024.

Australia’s COP31 bid is a positive development in two respects: it invites international scrutiny of Australia’s climate ambition, and it presents the world — including Pacific nations — with an opportunity to demand that Australia face up to its responsibilities as a major per-capita emitter of greenhouse gases and the world’s third largest exporter of gas and coal. (Australia Institute)

 If successful, it would be a pivotal moment for Australia’s global reputation and climate action efforts and a catalyst to commit to closing Fossil Fuel mining which ashamedly contributes to 21% of Australia’s total emissions, 4.5% of global fossil carbon dioxide emissions, with 80% of those emissions coming from exports.  (Climate Analytics Aug 2024 Report).

The Report further states, the cumulative fossil CO2 emissions from Australia’s fossil fuel exports 1961-2023 were 30 billion tons of CO2. But under current government policies this is set to increase by 50% over the next decade to 2035. Along with domestic CO2 emissions, this would consume 9% of the remaining global carbon budget to limit warming to 1.5°C

IMAGE: Australia High Commission in Fiji

Wealthy countries, including Australia, still haven’t met their $100 billion pledge in the COP28 Loss and Damage Fund to help developing countries face climate change, and the risks are rising.  (Read more FNGN article)

The Loss and Damage fund came after 30 years of advocacy from the country’s most vulnerable to climate change, to acceleration solutions related to climate mobility — migration, displacement, and planned relocation – that can save lives and contribute to global stability; and adaptation.

Australia needs to exit from fossil fuels on a set timeline and deliver on climate finance to support our Pacific neighbours – who are experiencing the who have contributed the least to the climate emergency yet are experiencing the brunt of its impacts.

COP 31 Key Goals:

1. Limiting Warming to 1.5°C:

1. • Communicate unique climate challenges and solutions from the Australia-Pacific region.
   • Catalyze progress towards local and global climate goals, including limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

2. Advocacy and Collaboration:

1. • Influence global and domestic policies through ambitious outcomes.
   • Foster collaboration between civil society, governments, NGOs, and the private sector.

1. 3. Innovation and Solutions:

1. • Drive innovative projects that deliver climate solutions.
   • Address climate challenges effectively.

4. Visibility and Accountability:

1. • Highlight the needs and challenges of the Australia-Pacific region.
   • Advocate for urgent action and community-led solutions.

Australia has made significant climate commitments to address the global crisis.

1. Net Zero Emissions by 2050:

1. • Australia aims to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
   • This commitment aligns with the Paris Agreement and global efforts to limit warming.

2. 2030 Emissions Reduction Target:

1. • The government targets a 43% reduction in emissions below 2005 levels by 2030.
   • This goal contributes to Australia’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

3. Climate Change Act:

1. • The Climate Change Act, passed in September 2022, outlines emission reduction targets and requires an annual climate change statement.
   • Australia is one of 27 nations with legislated net zero targets.

4. Budget Commitments:

1. • Budget 2023-24 allocates $4.6 billion for climate-related spending, building on the $24.9 billion committed in the previous year.
   • Investments focus on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and clean transportation.

5. Powering Australia Plan:

1. • A $23 billion plan aims to modernize Australia’s electricity grid, supporting renewable energy growth and electrification.