The Australian Marine Conservation Society says the $500m pledged by the Palaszczuk Government for publicly owned renewables is great news for the healthy future of our Great Barrier Reef and the tourism industry which relies on it.
The Renewable Energy Fund will create jobs in manufacturing, construction, operation and maintenance of large scale solar and wind energy plants, helping Queensland to lower its greenhouse gas emissions which drive the damaging mass coral bleaching events our international icon has repeatedly endured in recent years
“It is heartening to see the Palaszczuk government backing our Reef and our state with an investment that will create jobs as well as lowering emissions,” said Reef campaigner David Cazzulino.
“The biggest threat to our Reef is global warming and its future depends on Australia meeting its Paris commitment to limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre industrial levels. To meet this goal, the Australian Government must take rapid action to reduce emissions and protect our Reef and its tourism industry.
“Thousands of livelihoods depend on a healthy Reef and this investment by the Queensland Government is a strong show of support to them.
“This policy complements the huge renewable energy corridors announced for the State by the Palaszczuk Government last month.
“Coming into the state election, we look forward to strong commitments to a renewable energy future for Queensland from all parties.”
