Climate change leading to harsh weather and rising sea levels are already causing severe destruction to Australia’s ecosystems, industries, and towns. There are various natural calamities we have been through in recent times that highlight the cascading and compounding consequences and dangers of climate change. All of this makes us act faster and be a part of the group that helps reduce the emissions. Natural resources are inextricably related to Australia’s health, culture, and economic growth. Yet, since the late 1800s, our ecosystems have been changed by a global increase of 1.1°C in average temperature, with devastating repercussions for thousands of species. And now Australia is expected to warm by 3 degree Celsius. Imagine the level of damage we could go through.
What are fossil fuels and how do they lead to climate change?
The decay of buried carbon-based organisms that died millions of years ago produces fossil fuels. They produce carbon-rich deposits, which are mined and burned for energy. They are non-renewable and currently provide roughly 80% of global energy. They’re also used to produce plastic, steel, and a variety of other things. Coal, oil, and gas are the three forms of fossil fuels.
When fossil fuels like coal for electricity are burnt, huge quantities of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, are released into the atmosphere. Global warming is caused by greenhouse gases, which collect heat in our atmosphere.
Most polluted post codes of Australia – Burning coal for electricity
Based on the analysis made by CSIRO, Energy production is the largest contributor to Australia’s carbon emissions. This is followed by transport, agriculture, and industrial processes. Also, about 90 per cent of the world’s carbon emissions comes from the burning of fossil fuels – mainly for electricity.
The Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF), a national environmental organisation, has put into notice the highly affected places by air pollution which are a hub to large industrial operations that mostly operate in rural and regional areas. According to ACF, most of the post codes with bad air quality are home to coal-fired power plants or coal mines.
Most polluted post codes of Australia:
- Mount Isa, Qld (4825)
- Newman, WA (6753)
- Muswellbrook, NSW (2333)
- Tom Price, WA (6751)
- Traralgon, Vic (3844)
- Gladstone, Qld (4680)
- Stanwell, Qld (4680)
- Collie, WA (6225)
- Tarong, Qld (4615)
- Kalgoorlie, WA (6431)
Power costs rise by around 50% – Climate change taking a toll on Australia
The wholesale electricity prices in the national electricity market are set to increase by more than 50% in 2022. And the damage caused to the environment will be more expensive and demand considerably more adjustment if we postpone implementing effective adaptation measures and large global emission reductions. Despite the fact that the environmental consequences and hazards we experience are becoming extremely serious, it is still possible to avoid the worst scenarios. Renewable energy has proven to improve the environment, society, and economy of our nation and the world. Installing a Solar PV System is the most cost effective option right now as it saves money and benefits the economy.
