Science and the governance of Australia's climate regime

摘要

The promise of a scientifically sound policy approach to tackle greenhouse-gas emissions in Australia gives hope that the country's efforts to mitigate climate change can make an effective contribution to international objectives.After more than two decades of debate on climate change policy, in November 2011 the Australian Parliament passed legislation establishing a Carbon Pricing Mechanism (CPM). For the first time, large emitters across the country will be legally required toreduce their greenhouse-gas emissions. The CPM will commence on 1 July 2012 with a fixed unit price on emissions and transition after three years to a cap-and-trade scheme. It is part of a package of clean energy legislation and associated initiatives to support the development of renewable energy and improve energy efficiency.