On 25 October 2024, Australian Defence unveiled its Net Zero Strategy and Future Energy Strategy, designed to take practical action to reduce the impacts of climate change.
Climate change is a national security issue. It poses risks to Australia’s national interests and exacerbates geostrategic risks. The shift to net zero not only contributes to making Australians safer but also enhances Australia's standing in the Indo-Pacific.
Climate change is a national security issue that will increase challenges for Australia, Defence and our region. The challenges arising from climate change are recognised in the National Defence Strategy and Defence is taking action,
says Pat Conroy, Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery.
As the Australian Government’s largest landholder and energy user, Defence has developed plans to reduce its emissions and increase reliable renewable energy. By investing in clean energy, investigating opportunities for adopting lower-carbon fuels and preparing for future energy needs, Defence will contribute to a cleaner, safer environment and more resilient Australia, without compromising military preparedness or operational requirements.
Investing in clean energy offers significant long-term economic benefits for Defence. As global dynamics shift towards sustainability the cost of maintaining outdated, non-renewable energy sources will inevitably rise. Pat Conroy:
Action on climate change is part of the Defence mission to defend Australia and its national interests. Effective action will advance Australia’s security and prosperity.
The new strategies provide practical measures to respond to climate change risks and enhance Defence’s energy resilience through a balanced approach that safeguards national interests.
The Defence Net Zero Strategy focuses on practical ways to reduce emissions and decrease the environmental impact of Defence’s activities, with initial action concentrating on the Defence estate. The Defence Future Energy Strategy sets out how Defence plans to transition the Australian Defence Force’s deployable capabilities to use lower-carbon energy types, without detriment to military capability, preparedness or interoperability with allies.
Defence is committed to Australia’s emissions targets of a 43 percent reduction in emissions by 2030 and net zero by 2050, reinforcing the country’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and global climate leadership. Pat Conroy:
The Australian Defence Force will work to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and to mitigate the impacts of climate change. Defence will take a sensible and practical approach to adopting renewable energy for use in its deployable capabilities.
Implementation of both strategies will occur through close collaboration with industry partners, allies and the broader community to leverage knowledge, technology and resources. This collaborative approach ensures that actions are grounded in the latest scientific research and technological advancements, maximising effectiveness and impact. The strategies are designed to avoid unnecessary expenses that would arise through inaction on net zero.
For further information, check out the foundational document here and visit the Defence Energy Transition Office's landing page.
This is an extract from a media release from Defence (Australian Government). The original release can be accessed through the link here.