Crisafulli's uncertainty on renewables targets is cause for alarm

Conservationists are concerned the State Opposition is leaving the door open to lower renewable energy targets if it were elected, putting Queenslanders, the Great Barrier Reef and future green economy jobs at risk.

State Opposition Leader David Crisafulli revealed to 7 News last night that he would look at lowering legislated renewable energy targets if he became Premier, despite professing his support to pass the landmark environment laws only seven weeks ago in Parliament.

The Queensland Conservation Council is calling on the Opposition Leader to come clean on his plan for the energy transition before the next election.

Queensland Conservation Council Director Dave Copeman said

This lack of commitment to climate action from the Opposition Leader should be deeply concerning to every Queenslander.

The opposition stated during legislative debate in April that they supported the renewable energy targets. This statement shows how unclear that support is.

Our ecosystems, our economic future and community's livelihoods are at risk from a lack of climate action. The Great Barrier Reef is facing a grave threat if we cannot reduce emissions in line with 1.5 degrees. It is deeply concerning that Queensland's Opposition Leader is not committed to taking action necessary to protect this Queensland icon.

Building renewable energy rapidly, and well, is necessary to set Queensland on a path to 1.5 degrees. It will also set us up for clean export industries such as green iron and aluminium that will deliver a strong long term economy for Queensland's regions.

We call on the Opposition Leader to come clean on his plan for the energy transition before the election. Queenslanders deserve an answer on this critical election issue.