Mapping a pathway to net zero
Developing a state emissions reduction plan
South Australia has targets to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by more than 50% by 2030 (from 2005 levels) and to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.*
The South Australian Government is developing plans to put the state on the pathway to an economically strong net zero emissions future by 2050.
Input has been sought from business, community, government, industry and experts on opportunities to reduce emissions and to help inform the planning.
This included input from business and community through the Industry Climate Change Conference and Community Climate Conversations held during 2023.
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* The government is seeking to legislate an interim target of at least 60% net emissions reduction by 2030 (from 2005 levels). Learn more about amending South Australia's Climate Legislation.
How is South Australia progressing so far?
South Australia is making good progress towards its green house gas emissions reduction goals. In the 2022 financial year, South Australia emitted 15.82 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (MtCO2-e). This represents a 57.% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from the 2005 financial year.
Why have a state emissions reduction plan?
South Australia has made good progress in reducing the state’s emissions. Additional effort will be needed to achieve the state’s emissions targets.
By reducing our greenhouse gas emissions, we can work towards mitigating the impacts of climate change. It's an important step towards ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
What is net zero?
Put simply, net zero means cutting greenhouse gas emissions to as close to zero as possible balanced by actions to remove any remaining emissions including by capturing and storing carbon (such as by planting trees).
The goal of achieving net zero emissions is to limit the amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases that are released into the atmosphere, which contribute to global warming and climate change.
