Energy & Greenhouse Issue

Large-scale tree planting Large-scale tree planting

Greenhouse gases occur naturally in the Earths atmosphere. Through a process known as the Greenhouse Effect, these gases trap the sun's heat, and help to keep the Earth's surface temperature at a level that supports life. However, due to human activities particularly burning fossil fuels (coal, oil and natural gas) and land clearing the concentrations of greenhouse gases has increased sharply, causing more heat to be trapped and raising atmospheric temperatures.

Unless action is taken now, greenhouse gas emissions will continue to rise over the next century, causing increased global warming and serious changes to the Earths climate. For Victoria, studies suggest global warming will have serious social, economic and environmental implications, due to reduced rainfall, rising sea levels and an increase in the rate and intensity of severe weather events (storms and droughts etc).

On a per person basis, Australians are the highest greenhouse gas (GHG) polluters in the world according to the Australian Institute of Urban Studies (AIUS, 2004).  This can be largely attributed to our heavy reliance on coal fired electricity generation, especially in Victoria. 

Approximately 90% of Victorias electricity is generated from coal (AIUS, 2004) representing Australias largest source of GHG emissions.  Electricity generation was the fastest growing contributor to GHG emissions in Victoria, increasing 37% from 1990 to 2002 (Department of Sustainability and Environment, 2002). 

Transport is also a significant contributor of GHG to the atmosphere.  Emissions from transport (predominantly road transport) are the second highest contributor of GHG to the atmosphere in Victoria.  Significant growth has also occurred in the volume of emissions from this sector with a 17% increase recorded between 1990 and 2002 (DSE, 2002).

The challenge for governments, businesses and individuals around the world is to develop practical measures to dramatically cut greenhouse gas emissions. This will involve improving energy efficiency, shifting to renewable energy sources, large-scale tree planting and preserving remaining vegetation.

References

Australian Institute of Urban Studies & City of Melbourne, (2004), Environmental Indicators for Metropolitan Melbourne Bulletin 7, Mediation Communications

Department of Sustainability and Environment, (2002), Victorian Greenhouse Gas Inventory 2002, Department of Sustainability and Environment