Australia’s Climate Change and Energy Minister, Chris Bowen, (pictured) has announced the creation of a national “Net Zero Authority” to assist coal mining companies in their transition to green industries.
The authority will initially function as an agency from July 1, advising the government on the final structure of a national net-zero authority that will be legislated.
It will also help workers retrain, coordinate programs across government, and encourage investment in low-carbon industries to create new employment opportunities.
“We need renewable energy for all the obvious environmental reasons,” Mr. Bowen said. “But it’s also the biggest economic opportunity facing our country and we want to ensure that that translates into not only jobs but good paying jobs.”
The authority will cost $23 million in the first year.
The concept of a nationwide transition authority has garnered extensive backing from various sectors, including businesses, environmental advocates, and the clean energy industry.
Source: The West Australian
Image Source: Chris Bowen MP