Australia pledges net-zero emissions by 2050

Government says clean technology can deliver bulk of cuts and rules out use of carbon taxes

Australia has pledged to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 with a technology-led strategy that leans heavily on clean hydrogen and low-cost solar. The strategy shuns the use of carbon taxes while also appearing to protect the role of Australia’s export-led coal, gas and agricultural sectors as the government treads a fine line between alignment with global climate efforts and protecting jobs at home ahead of looming elections. “Our plan continues the policies and initiatives that we have already put in place and that have proven to be successful, while preserving existing industries and jobs, and supporting regional Australia,” says Angus Taylor, minister for industry, energy and emissions