14 DAY TRIAL // Yesterday, high officials in Tasmania went public with the news that the state was to try to phase out coal and other dirty fuels over the next seven years. Thus, they said that Tasmania was to be powered by renewables alone by the year 2020.
What's more, it appears that, should things go as planned, the island state will install enough green energy capacity over the years to come that it will not only successfully meet its power demands, but will also export some to countries that are also interested in mitigating climate change and global warming.
Presently, almost 90% of Tasmania energy is environmentally friendly, so the state has high chances to become 100% dependent on renewable energy within said time frame.
The state's goals for the following seven years are explained in a report dubbed “Climate Smart Tasmania: A 2020 Climate Change Strategy,” The Climate Group reports.
The report details not just plans to become completely dependent on renewable energy, but also plans to reduce carbon emissions to 35% below the levels recorded in 1990. The deadline for this ambitious project is also the year 2020.
By 2050, the island state plans to further reduce its emissions to 60% below 1990 levels.
Interestingly enough, it appears that Tasmania’s commitment to shrinking its carbon footprint as much as possible is a response to Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbot's showing virtually no interest in mitigating climate change and global warming.
“With a climate denialist government in Canberra determined to wind back Australia’s efforts to reduce emissions, it’s more important than ever that Tasmania shows leadership,” said Cassy O’Connor, climate change minister, Tasmanian government.
Just days ago, Tasmania became a member of The Climate Group, an organization whose goal is to promote clean technologies and policies.
Commenting on the state's being accepted as a member of The Climate Group, Cassy O'Connor stressed that, “Our admission to The Climate Group is a strong endorsement of the Tasmanian Government’s action to reduce emissions and protect our community’s future.”
Furthermore, “Tasmania’s membership of The Climate Group is an opportunity to work with a coalition of states, cities, companies and public figures to further enhance our clean, green, low-carbon brand.”