Guardian News reported that the Australian Prime minister has signaled that he might not attend the United Nations Climate Conference in November. His government is continuously facing criticism for its poor handling of climate change.
Scott Morrison said in an interview that he ‘’ not made any final decision’’ on attendance, proposing it was a burden.
Talking to West Australian Newspaper, Scott Morrison said, ‘It’s another trip overseas…. And I’ve spent a lot of time in quarantine,’’
Indeed, the upcoming COP26 is one of the biggest global climate crisis talks in the year. Leaders from around the world will attend a 12-day meeting in Glasgow, Scotland.
Everyone is hopeful that the next emissions standards will set to slow down Global Warming. It is also considered that the temperature rise must kept below 1.5C.
Climate change is a growing concern and is an international issue that needs the attention of leaders around the globe.
Meanwhile, Mr. Morrison said that there are other priorities that he would like to solve. He is giving all his attention to reopen Australian borders.
He told the newspaper, ‘’ I have to focus on things here and with Covid. Australia will be opening up around that time. There will be a lot of issues to manage and I have to manage those competing demands.’’
Australian view on Climate Change issue
Australia is among the top exporter of Coal and gas – and is one of the 200 countries expected to present their updated emission cuts 2030 at the meeting.
The Prime minister has said that he wishes Australia to achieve net-zero emission’’ as soon as possible’’, but has not outlined any measures to achieve that goal.
Though, the government resisted achieving net-zero by 2050 which many countries including the US, and the UK have pledged.
Australia heavily relies on coal-fired power which raises concerns among environmentalists and climate change experts. It makes the most carbon polluting nation in the world per capita.
Mr. Morrison, who become prime minister in 2018, has consistently protected and defended Australia’s climate change policy. He believes it’s an adequate response to the current situation.
Meanwhile, Foreign minister Marise Payne said on Monday, there would be senior-level representation, if Morrison did not attend the meeting.
‘It’s not a no-show at the conference. Australia will be strongly represented at the conference no matter by which senior Australian representative our commitment is very clear.’’
