Tasmania achieves net zero again

The latest Tasmanian Greenhouse Gas Emissions Report released today shows Tasmania’s greenhouse gas emissions have remained at a net negative level for the ninth year in a row.

Minister for Energy and Renewables, Nick Duigan, said Tasmania first reached net zero emissions in 2014 and has continued to maintain this status.

“Our most recent data shows that Tasmania’s emissions were minus 4.34 megatonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent – meaning our emissions reduced by 122.2 per cent since 1990,” Minister Duigan said.

The reduction is because we take more carbon dioxide out of the air than we emit, offsetting all our greenhouse gas emissions.

“This accomplishment reflects our longstanding investment in renewable energy generation and carbon sink in our managed forests. Our economy and population have also grown significantly since the baseline year, demonstrating a low emissions transition is achievable,” Minister Duigan said.

Importantly, the latest report shows we are still ahead of our legislated target of net zero emissions, or lower, from 2030.

“This target is the most ambitious legislated emissions reduction target in Australia, and one of the most ambitious in the world. However, achieving this target is not guaranteed and will require continuing effort across all sectors of our economy,” Minister Duigan said.

The Tasmanian Government remains committed to taking effective climate change action, guided by our Climate Change Action Plan, to improve the capacity of our economy, communities and environment to adapt to the impacts of a changing climate, and reduce our greenhouse gas emissions.

“Key actions under the plan include the preparation of Tasmania’s first statewide climate change risk assessment, due for completion in late 2024, and sector-based Emissions Reduction and Resilience Plans,” he said.

“Our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future is all about making Tasmania the best place to live, work and raise a family and maintaining our clean green status ensures people love living in our state.”

The report is available here.