Chevron’s Gorgon Gas Export Plant in Western Australia, the country’s largest industrial climate pollutant, received millions in carbon credits from the federal government last year despite rising emissions. Recent government data revealed that emissions have increased from 8.1 million tonnes to 8.8 million tonnes of CO2, while the permitted baseline also rose, allowing for more emissions without penalties. This has sparked calls for policy changes to enhance pollution protections, which were initially designed to curb emissions from major facilities but have seen mixed success.
While there was a slight reduction in overall emissions across major facilities by nearly 2% in the past year, climate activists note that many facilities continue to increase direct emissions. The Lock The Gate Alliance has highlighted the flaws in current mechanisms, particularly concerning coal and gas facilities, stating that systemic loopholes undermine Australia’s climate goals.
Although some plants, like Chevron’s Gorgon, have exploited the system—receiving nearly 389,000 carbon credits for remaining below a baseline—climate experts warn this could lead to greater environmental harm. The Gorgon also failed to deliver on promised reductions through its Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) project, which has faced delays and is operating far below capacity.
Other major facilities have had to purchase carbon credits after exceeding their baselines. As emissions data continues to reveal inconsistencies, experts stress the need for more accurate reporting and stricter regulations on offsets used in emission reduction strategies. The government claims progress is being made, with the Climate Change and Energy Minister asserting that emissions are on a path to meet legal targets, although advocates argue that deeper, more urgent reductions are necessary.
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