Australia PM: Technology best way to achieve climate target

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison says a net zero carbon emissions target by 2050 would be a “great positive” for Australia if it can be achieved through technology and not a carbon price

CANBERRA, Australia -- A net zero carbon emissions target by 2050 would be a “great positive” for Australia if it can be achieved through technology and not a carbon price, the prime minister said on Tuesday as he pressures government colleagues to commit to more ambitious action ahead of a climate summit.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison last week agreed to attend next month’s climate conference in Glasgow, Scotland, but his government colleagues have yet to approve the commitment he wants to net zero.

“If you have a credible plan ... with the proper transparencies Australia’s well known for, then it can be a great positive for Australia,” Morrison told Parliament, referring to the net zero target.

“If you have the right plan, ... if you have technology, not taxes,” Morrison added.