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Defence has announced its Net Zero Strategy and Future Energy Strategy, designed to take practical action to reduce the impacts of climate change.
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As the Australian government’s largest landholder and energy user, Defence has developed plans to reduce its emissions and increase reliable renewable energy.
According to the 24 October announcement, climate change is a national security issue and poses risks to Australia’s national interests and exacerbates geostrategic risks. The shift to net zero not only contributes to making Australians safer but also enhances Australia’s standing in the Indo-Pacific.
By investing in clean energy, investigating opportunities for adopting lower-carbon fuels and preparing for future energy needs, Defence will contribute to a cleaner, safer environment and more resilient Australia, without compromising military preparedness or operational requirements.
Investing in clean energy offers significant long-term economic benefits for Defence. As global dynamics shift towards sustainability, the cost of maintaining outdated, non-renewable energy sources will inevitably rise.
“Climate change is a national security issue that will increase challenges for Australia, Defence and our region. The challenges arising from climate change are recognised in the National Defence Strategy and Defence is taking action,” Minister of Defence Industry and Capability Delivery Pat Conroy said.
“Action on climate change is part of the Defence mission to defend Australia and its national interests. Effective action will advance Australia’s security and prosperity.
“The Australian Defence Force will work to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and to mitigate the impacts of climate change. Defence will take a sensible and practical approach to adopting renewable energy for use in its deployable capabilities.”
The new strategies provide practical measures to respond to climate change risks and enhance Defence’s energy resilience through a balanced approach that safeguards national interests.
The Defence Net Zero Strategy focuses on practical ways to reduce emissions and decrease the environmental impact of Defence’s activities, with initial action concentrating on the Defence estate.
The Defence Future Energy Strategy sets out how Defence plans to transition the Australian Defence Force’s deployable capabilities to use lower-carbon energy types, without detriment to military capability, preparedness or interoperability with allies.
Defence is committed to Australia’s emissions targets of a 43 per cent reduction in emissions by 2030 and net zero by 2050, reinforcing the country’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and global climate leadership.
Implementation of both strategies will occur through close collaboration with industry partners, allies and the broader community to leverage knowledge, technology and resources.
This collaborative approach ensures that actions are grounded in the latest scientific research and technological advancements, maximising effectiveness and impact.
The strategies are designed to avoid unnecessary expenses that would arise through inaction on net zero.
