“If adopted globally, this hesitant and inadequate target from the Rudd Government would see the destruction of Kakadu National Park, increasing development pressure on our fragile environments, and the inundation of many coastal areas which are culturally important and a source of food for Indigenous Territorians,” ECNT acting coordinator Emma King said.

As part of the Bali Action Plan agreed to last year, the Australian government agreed with IPCC findings that we must reduce emissions by between 25% and 40% by 2020 on 1990 levels to avoid runaway climate change.

Runaway climate change would bring the demise of the Great Barrier Reef , the extinction of up to half of all species on the planet, and growing impacts on human rights as coastal arable land is inundated, droughts worsen and food supplies are affected.

“Science tells us that even a 25% reduction is probably not adequate to stop runaway climate change – we need at least 40% and possibly up to 90% to ensure a healthy future for our children and grandchildren,” Ms King said.

ECNT also has concerns about the message this target sends to the NT Government which is currently developing their own climate change and emissions targets.

“A stronger target would encourage the NT and other jurisdictions to follow suit,” Ms King said.

“It would also encourage the development of new sustainable energy industries creating jobs and strengthening our economy."

Further comment: Emma King – 0428 818 109