The Prime Minister hits back at critics of Australia’s climate change record. In a major speech to the UN, Scott Morrison was adamant Australia would meet all its climate commitments.

Jakob Funk reports.

TRANSCRIPT

After much criticism for not attending the Climate Change Summit, Scott Morrison had a point to make, reinforcing Australia’s contribution to global climate action.

Scott Morrison, Prime Minister: “Australia is committed to leading urgent action to combat plastic pollution that is choking our oceans.”

The Prime Minister defended Australia’s emissions output, saying the Government is doing its part.

Scott Morrison, Prime Minister: “Reducing our greenhouse gas emissions by 367 million tons more than required to meet our 2020 Kyoto target.”

The Prime Minister said the Government will also meet its Paris commitments, pledging to reduce emissions by 26 to 28 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030.

Scott Morrison, Prime Minister: “This is a credible, fair, responsible and achievable contribution to global climate change action.”

Following Greta Thunberg’s stirring speech on Monday and large climate strikes across the world last week, Mr Morrison stressed the importance of not leaving the work for future generations.

Scott Morrison, Prime Minister: “Above all, we must let our children be children, let our kids be kids, let our teenagers be teenagers while we do the work positively together.”

Jakob Funk, QUT News.