Victoria GHG Emissions Up Nearly 30% 1990 - 2007; New South Wales Up 7% - Age

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ANNUAL greenhouse gas emissions from energy in Victoria have soared by nearly 30% since 1990, challenging State Government claims that it is serious about tackling climate change. By comparison, annual NSW emissions have risen by only 7% since 1990, the benchmark year for atmospheric pollution under the Kyoto international climate change treaty.

Taken from the first annual report of the greenhouse indicator pioneered by the non-profit Climate Group and The Age, the contrasting figures from Australia's two biggest states suggest Victoria must shoulder much of the responsibility if the country fails to meet its Kyoto target of an 8% rise on 1990 emission levels by 2012. Victoria's dramatic increase - due largely to surging emissions from the brown-coal-fired power stations in the Latrobe Valley - is also at odds with the State Government's target of cutting pollution by 60% on 2000 levels by 2050.

Climate Group's Australian director, Rupert Posner, said that despite positive statements from the Government, the state was not yet doing enough to stop the growth in pollution. "We need to change the energy mix in Victoria and we need to take action soon," he said.

Geology plays a role in the difference between the states. Victoria's brown-coal-fired plants emit up to 50% more greenhouse gas per megawatt hour of electricity than NSW's black-coal stations. The State Government effectively extended the operating life of the country's dirtiest plant, Hazelwood, until at least 2030 three years ago by giving it access to new coal reserves.

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http://www.theage.com.au/news/climate-watch/greenhouse-emissions-soar/2008/01/06/1199554485339.html