Manufacturing leads Australia’s clean energy shift with new climate tool

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Image credit: Ben/stock.adobe.com

In a significant step towards tracking and accelerating Australia’s clean energy progress, the Climate Council has launched the Momentum Monitor, a tool designed to analyse and report on climate action across key industries, including manufacturing. 

The council said in a media release that the initiative underscores Australia’s growing potential to cut climate pollution and strengthen its economy by adopting renewable energy and sustainable practices. 

The Momentum Monitor utilises publicly available government data, with quarterly updates offering insights into progress in the energy, transport, and manufacturing sectors. 

Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie highlighted the critical role manufacturing can play in Australia’s clean energy transition. 

“Australian households and industries are jumping on opportunities in readily available, proven technologies. Manufacturing is uniquely positioned to power industry with cleaner and more efficient energy while cutting climate pollution,” McKenzie stated.

McKenzie also emphasised Australia’s renewable energy achievements, noting that the nation is already powered 40 per cent by renewables. 

She credited advancements in solar and wind energy, supported by large-scale battery and hydro storage, for creating a robust foundation for further climate action.

According to the council, the manufacturing sector stands out as a significant contributor to climate solutions, with opportunities to integrate renewable power and increase efficiency.

“Efforts to slash climate pollution are not just about the environment; they’re about empowering Australians, saving money, and creating jobs,” McKenzie said.

The Momentum Monitor also aims to provide transparency and inspire further action by illustrating the progress and potential of sectors like manufacturing to drive sustainable growth.

McKenzie concluded, “We’ve already made a lot of progress, and we can set our communities up for success by building on this to create a healthier, cleaner future for all Australians alive today, as well as every generation to come.”