Today’s delayed release of the 2021 State of the Environment report places Queensland in the frame as “the state most responsible” for climate change and habitat loss. These are the two great threats to Australia’s environment.

This report makes it clear that climate change is impacting Australia’s environment, and our people, with the situation classified as poor and deteriorating. Queensland must do more to reduce climate pollution. We have the highest per capita carbon emissions in the world, and we are responsible for 31% of Australia’s total emissions. Our energy and land use sectors are particularly high emitters, with electricity generation emitting 64.3 million tonnes of carbon dioxide a year, and Land use and forestry emitting 16.3 million tonnes.

“Queensland’s emissions make it the state most responsible for addressing climate change.” said Dave Copeman, Director of Queensland Conservation Council. We also have the most to lose, with increased water temperatures due to climate change and driving repeated mass bleachings events of the Great Barrier Reef.

"This report is a clear indication that the Queensland Government must lift its inadequate 30% by 2030 emissions reductions target. This target is woefully inadequate, not in line with climate science, and will lead to more damage to Queensland's environment as documented in the State of the Environment report.