With over 750 certifications across 500+ businesses; Climate Active has incentivised companies to credibly measure as well as reduce, and offset their emissions, publicly communicating their progress.
It has driven investments into renewable energy, energy efficiency, regenerative agriculture, and land restoration projects across the country and internationally – supporting local jobs, regional economies, and Indigenous land management.
In recent years, however, expectations have shifted and the scheme has come under increasing scrutiny. Negative publications, high-profile corporate withdrawals and legal challenges have raised questions about its relevance and credibility. Some of these concerns are valid, given promised updates to the scheme have been continually delayed, and point to areas where the program needs to evolve. Others believe this overlooks the complexity and increasing risks associated with taking voluntary climate action and the positive impact achieved to date by the program. What is clear is that incentives to participate have weakened, and reform is needed to restore confidence and ensure the program meets the markets expectations going forward.
At the same time, the Government has outlined an ambitious NDC, setting out targets to reduce emissions by 62-70% by 2035. Targets that will require a rapid scaling up of private sector investments into climate action.
In this context – it is critical that Climate Active is strengthened and reformed – not repealed.
A reformed program should build on the learnings in Australia over the last decade, as well as those made by international standards and initiatives.
Read IETA's letter in full.
