This Month
Canberra wants Tomago saved – just not all on its dime
Australia needs to avoid indulging in political slush funds dressed up as “industrial policy” and pivot towards a smarter, future-looking strategy.
Twiggy and BHP lock horns over diesel excise rebate
BHP has warned against pushing too quickly to decarbonise the mining industry, given the realities of the international oil shock.
This steelworks says food waste can help ease the gas crunch
As it confronts the global oil shock, NSW Premier Chris Minns wants his state to become energy-independent. Businesses say a homegrown fuel fix exists and can help.
NSW first to ban new coal mines
Minns government ban on new greenfield coal mines labelled ‘disappointing’ and ‘perplexing’, but openness to extension of existing mines wins support
Woodside faces slower green ammonia start-up as customer demand lags
The delay to the start of low-carbon ammonia at a plant in Texas comes as the company confirmed its $7 billion target for clean energy investments by 2030 despite the Iran war.
Data centre power emissions double over 5 years
Some of Australia’s top server space providers say big rises in their reported carbon output do not fully reflect their green energy aspirations.
There’s a sting in Santos’ win over activist greenwashing claims
The oil and gas giant saw off allegations it was misleading investors about its net zero emissions plans. But the decision has raised more questions.
February
Aware Super opens door to Origin Energy in net zero reset
The $230 billion super giant is abandoning its restrictions on carbon-intensive companies just as rival funds are being scrutinised for greenwashing.
EV subsidies drive rare drop in transport emissions
Increasing electric vehicle ownership has helped cut annual transport emissions for the first time since the pandemic.
China’s top steel maker says Labor’s tariffs undermine climate goals
The intervention came as important duties on another Chinese steel product were raised, despite threats of a blowback on Australia’s lucrative iron ore exports.
Gas giant warned Labor enviro conditions put $30b project at stake
Recently released correspondence between Woodside and the government reveals the company warned emissions restrictions could jeopardise its Browse project.
BYD amasses 6.2m carbon credit haul under efficiency scheme
Chinese carmakers are the main beneficiaries of the government’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard, while legacy manufacturers are set to pay hefty penalties.
Federal Court judge throws out greenwashing case against Santos
The shareholder activist group that brought the case says Santos’ behaviour on emissions claims should reinforce investor concerns about the company’s leadership.
Trump axes US power to regulate climate change
The US president has scrapped a key finding that underpinned the ability of regulators to curb emissions, as he steps up his assault on global warming policy.
Queensland delays emissions plans by up to five years
A rollback of climate policies in Queensland could require other states to find as much as 9 per cent of new emissions reductions to meet federal targets.
Mookhey’s reckless data centre rush takes us in wrong energy direction
Recent policy decisions by the NSW Labor government are actively contrary to our energy security and emissions reduction targets.
Australia will pay for its Darwin Port mistake
Readers’ letters on the Darwin Port sale, Chalmers’ efforts on inflation, Adelaide Writers’ Week, the RBA’s interest rate decision, and AI and climate action.
January
Charging polluters is how to cut emissions, fix the budget and win voters
The principle of “polluter pays” ensures those who impose climate costs face them directly. This will cut emissions at the lowest cost while raising revenue.
Labor urged to dump energy policies for $36b pollution tax
Former ACCC chair Rod Sims argues that taxing the fossil fuels would provide a more efficient market incentive than current Labor subsidies.
Miners ask government to ‘urgently’ finalise policy
The West Australian government promised in 2024 to hand responsibility for policing greenhouse gas emissions to the Commonwealth. Industry is still waiting.
