Seminar Series: Abstract

4.30
June 18 2009
Hedley Bull Centre Lecture Theatre 1

RMAP Climate Argument - Climate policy in the Asia-Pacific: Australia as catalyst?
Harinder Sidhu, Erwin Jackson, Stephen Howes and Frank Jotzo

The Asia-Pacific is the fastest growing region in the world and the largest source of human-made greenhouse gas emissions. To what extent the world can mitigate climate change will to a large degree hinge on policy action taken by countries of the Asia-Pacific. Even though Australia only accounts for a small share of the region’s emissions, it may end up playing a disproportionate role, in that it is one of only five Asia-Pacific countries that made Kyoto commitments, it has a strong economic and political orientation towards developing countries in the region including climate change aid, and is putting in place domestic climate policies. Direct engagement on climate change with countries in the region is on the rise, especially with China, Indonesia and Pacific Island Countries.

It is Australian government policy to strive for strong global mitigation and that implies strong action to curb greenhouse gas emissions in the Asia-Pacific. But can Australia really help bring about such an outcome? Is the proposed emissions target range an adequate commitment and is the proposed emissions trading scheme credible? Should Australia follow the US or take the lead? Are Australia’s dealings with developing countries on climate change effective and is enough money being committed?

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