Mark Vender
The NSW government has established an independent, expert commission to monitor, review and report on the state’s progress towards its emissions reduction targets. These include a 50 per cent reduction in net greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, a 70 per cent reduction by 2035, and net zero emissions by 2050.
The Net Zero Commission will be directly accountable to NSW parliament through the recently established Parliamentary Joint Standing Committee on Net Zero Future. It is required to prepare annual reports on the state’s progress and to consult with the future NSW Agriculture Commissioner.
Other key functions include:
- Monitoring whole-of-economy progress towards emissions reduction targets and adaptation objectives
- Providing independent, expert advice on opportunities for NSW to effectively address climate change
- Educating and informing the NSW government, businesses, organisations, and individuals on ways to promote action to address climate change.
Carlos Flores, M.AIRAH, will be seconded from his usual role as NABERS Director to be the inaugural director of the commission, sharing the job with Emily Yip from the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.
Dr Paul Grimes PSM has been appointed as the Net Zero Commission Chair. Dr Grimes has held senior roles across the Australian, ACT, NSW, South Australian and Victorian public services.
The Net Zero Commissioners include Maria Atkinson AM, Oliver Costello, Professor Hugh Durrant-Whyte, Professor Frank Jotzo, Katerina Kimmorley, Meg McDonald and Professor Andy Pitman AO.
The commission also includes NSW Chief Scientist, Professor Hugh Durrant-Whyte, as an ex-officio member to provide whole-of-government scientific advice.
“I’m thrilled to announce the appointment of these exceptional, eminent individuals to lead the Net Zero Commission,” says Minister for Climate Change and Energy Penny Sharpe.
“The strong, independent Net Zero Commission will provide us with expert assessments of our progress in achieving our net zero goals and adapting to our changing climate. The commission will consider all perspectives and help bring government, business and community along the journey towards our ambitious net zero goals.”
More information is available at the Net Zero Commission webpage.
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