Experts have issued a plea to the Albanese government to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2035, a full 15 years earlier than the current proposal.

Representing approximately 900 prominent engineers and scientists in Australia, the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) says there is an urgent need for immediate and substantial measures to combat climate change and limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. 

ATSE President, Dr. Katherine Woodthorpe AO FTSE, stated that Australia must rally across all sectors, including governments and industries, to set a high bar for innovation. 

Dr Woodthorpe stressed the importance of science-based targets that can drive investment and encourage the adoption of low-carbon technologies, both mature and emerging.

“To meet this ambition, with the Federal Government in the driver’s seat, Australia should prioritise upskilling our workforce, and develop and urgently apply evidence-based solutions across all industry sectors – particularly in energy, transportation, manufacturing, construction, minerals and agriculture,” she said.

ATSE's position statement also called for the development of a comprehensive national net-zero emissions policy and implementation framework. 

The experts say this framework should focus on transforming Australia's economy, adopting a zero-waste approach to supply chains, and mitigating human impacts on biodiversity.

While acknowledging Australia's progress, ATSE emphasised the necessity of setting more ambitious targets due to the country's significant carbon footprint. 

The group is calling upon federal and state governments to take action, from reducing waste and emissions in production to supporting the electrification of transport networks.

Dr Woodthorpe said there are now unequivocal warnings of climate scientists and undeniable evidence of climate-induced catastrophes. 

She expressed that Australia has an economic opportunity it must seize and underscored that meeting the proposed target by 2035 is achievable with immediate and large-scale actions, alongside political, policy, and regulatory support at all levels.