New deep emissions cut commitments needed now to limit increases to 1.5 degrees

The first study to quantify the impact of pledges made before and during COP26 has concluded there is a 50 per cent chance of keeping warming below 1.9 or 2 degrees by the end of the century, while new emissions cuts are needed to limit increases to 1.5 degrees.

Governments must accelerate plans to phase out coal and gas and replace them with cheaper, cleaner renewable energy, with the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) warning three states may face a reduction in reliability if new generation projects don’t progress. 

A new industrial precinct in Darwin Harbour, spruiked this week by Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce, could cause "significant adverse impacts to human health", according to an environmental report.

...and the Canopy is taking a pause over the Easter holiday long weekend. We will be back in your inbox on Tuesday 19 April.

Global warming limit of 2 degrees still possible if Paris Agreement pledges are met, say researchers

Global warming of more than 2 degrees could be avoided if all nations honour their Paris Agreement pledges to reduce carbon emissions, but research has found new commitments to deep cuts will be needed to limit increases to a still-dangerous 1.5 degrees.

Early closure of Australia’s largest coal-fired plant could create electricity shortages without grid upgrades

Plans to accelerate the closure of Australia’s biggest coal-fired plant have the potential to create electricity shortages in three states unless enhancements and new generation and storage capacity is added, the market operator said.

Plans to industrialise Middle Arm could cause 'significant' health impacts, environmental report warns

Plans to develop a manufacturing and minerals precinct in Middle Arm, south of Darwin, could pose potential risks to threatened species and the health of local residents, according to a new report. 

Greens $500 million plan to help coal exit

Greens leader Adam Bandt says a $500 million investment in green steel would be a "vital component" of Australia's exit from the coal and gas industry.

New South Wales: Teen offers heartwarming gift to flood victim

A devastated flood victim in New South Wales who lost his rental home and car has been brought to tears after a compassionate teenager gifted him a car.