In a significant move to combat climate change, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a new emissions reduction target for 2035. The nation, known as one of the world’s largest per capita polluters, aims to cut its carbon emissions by at least 62% compared to 2005 levels. This announcement comes as Australia faces mounting global criticism for its reliance on fossil fuels and increasing climate-related challenges. The new target surpasses the previous goal of a 43% reduction by 2030 and aligns with recommendations from the Climate Change Authority, a government advisory body. Albanese emphasized that the target is ‘responsible, science-backed, and achievable with proven technology.’ The commitment will be formally presented at the upcoming UN General Assembly meeting in New York. Australia’s climate efforts are part of its obligations under the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement, which aims to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Recent years have seen Australia grapple with extreme weather events, including severe droughts, historic bushfires, and record-breaking floods. A landmark government-commissioned risk assessment warned of escalating climate risks, such as heatwave-related deaths, water quality degradation, and sea level rises threatening 1.5 million people. Despite these challenges, Australia’s climate agenda remains contentious. The opposition Liberal National coalition has criticized the new target, calling it costly and lacking credibility, while independent and Greens MPs advocate for more aggressive cuts. Meanwhile, the Labor government continues to approve fossil fuel projects, such as the recent extension of Woodside’s North West Shelf gas project, drawing criticism from environmental advocates. Australia’s dual approach—pursuing renewable energy while supporting fossil fuels—highlights the complexities of its climate policy.
标签： Oceania
大洋洲
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Sex abuse charges against top Australian radio host downgraded
In a significant legal development, veteran broadcaster and former Wallabies coach Alan Jones, 84, has pleaded not guilty to 27 charges of indecent assault and sexual touching. The charges stem from allegations that he assaulted nine men over two decades. During a court hearing on Thursday, prosecutors downgraded 11 of the most serious charges, which were related to alleged assaults on individuals under his authority, and dropped some charges entirely. The case, now set to be heard by a magistrate rather than a jury, will return to court next month. Deputy Chief Magistrate Sharon Freund noted that the case was restructured after two alleged victims withdrew, though no explanation was provided for their departure. Jones’ lawyer, Bryan Wrench, described the dropped charges as a ‘very big development’ and a ‘significant concession,’ emphasizing that there was no evidence of Jones having authority over the complainants. Police have indicated that some of the alleged victims knew Jones personally, with at least one having been employed by him. Others reportedly faced assault during their first encounter with him. Jones, a polarizing figure in Australian media, has consistently denied the allegations, calling them ‘baseless’ or ‘distortions of the truth.’ Known for his controversial remarks, Jones has faced multiple defamation lawsuits and advertiser boycotts throughout his career. The case continues to draw significant public attention as it unfolds.
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Trump clashes with Australian journalist over business deals in office
In a recent confrontation, former US President Donald Trump accused an Australian journalist of ‘hurting Australia’ during an interview. The incident occurred when John Lyons from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) questioned Trump about his financial gains since returning to the White House in January. Trump, evading the specifics, stated that his children manage the family businesses and criticized Lyons for damaging Australia’s interests. He hinted at discussing the matter with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during their upcoming meeting. The tension between Trump and Lyons escalated when Trump abruptly ended the conversation, signaling for silence before moving on. This exchange comes amidst strained US-Australia relations, particularly following the Trump administration’s review of the Aukus submarine deal and the imposition of tariffs on Australian exports. Lyons defended his line of questioning as legitimate and non-provocative, emphasizing the importance of journalistic integrity in maintaining the alliance between the two nations. The White House later commented on the incident through a social media post, labeling Lyons as a ‘rude foreign Fake News loser’.
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Rising seas will threaten 1.5 million Australians by 2050 – report
A groundbreaking climate report has revealed that Australia is already grappling with the severe impacts of climate change, with escalating risks projected for the coming decades. The National Climate Risk Assessment, Australia’s first comprehensive climate evaluation, warns that 1.5 million coastal residents could face threats from rising sea levels by 2050. The report highlights increased frequency and intensity of climate hazards, including floods, cyclones, heatwaves, droughts, and bushfires. Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen emphasized that while Australians are already experiencing these consequences, mitigating global warming now is crucial to safeguarding future generations. The report examined three warming scenarios—above 1.5°C, 2°C, and 3°C—and found that Australia, one of the world’s highest per capita polluters, has already surpassed 1.5°C. At 3°C, heat-related deaths in Sydney could surge by over 400%, with Melbourne seeing nearly triple the current rates. The 72-page document, released ahead of the government’s 2035 emissions reduction targets, underscores that no community will be spared from cascading and compounding climate risks. It predicts a A$611 billion drop in property values, deteriorating water quality, and heightened threats to coral reefs like the Great Barrier Reef and Ningaloo Reef. Northern Australia, remote communities, and outer suburbs of major cities are particularly vulnerable. The report also warns of increased pressure on health systems, infrastructure, ecosystems, and emergency services. In response, the government unveiled a national adaptation plan to coordinate federal, state, and local efforts. Bowen reiterated Australia’s commitment to a 43% emissions reduction by 2030, though critics argue the nation’s reliance on fossil fuels remains problematic. Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie called for more ambitious targets, stressing that delays in reducing emissions will exacerbate the devastating impacts of heatwaves, floods, and bushfires.
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Major Australian gas project extended until 2070
The Australian government has officially extended the operational lifespan of the North West Shelf, one of the nation’s largest fossil fuel projects, by four decades to 2070. This decision comes just days before the federal government is set to announce its 2035 emissions reduction targets. Australia, one of the world’s highest per capita polluters, has committed to reducing emissions by 43% by 2030 but faces criticism for its continued reliance on fossil fuels. Critics argue that the extension undermines global climate goals, while Environment Minister Murray Watt defended the decision, citing 48 new strict conditions imposed on oil and gas giant Woodside Energy. These conditions mandate the reduction of specific gas emissions by 2030 and achieving net zero by 2050. Additionally, safeguards have been introduced to protect the ancient Indigenous rock art in Western Australia’s Pilbara region. Woodside Energy’s Chief Operating Officer, Liz Westcott, welcomed the extension, emphasizing the company’s commitment to providing reliable energy. The North West Shelf project, which includes a processing and export plant in Karratha, is located near the 60,000-year-old World Heritage-listed Murujuga rock art. Watt highlighted that the new conditions would prevent unacceptable impacts on the heritage site, including restrictions on air emissions that could accelerate damage. The decision also includes legal requirements for industry consultation with Indigenous communities and a robust monitoring system to ensure compliance with emissions limits. Further protections for the heritage site were announced under a ‘partial declaration.’ Peter Hicks, chair of the Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation, praised the additional protections for an area of great cultural significance. However, climate groups, including the Australian Conservation Foundation, condemned the extension, labeling the project a ‘carbon bomb’ that jeopardizes global efforts to combat rising temperatures. Australian Greens leader Larissa Waters described the decision as a ‘betrayal and disastrous for the planet’s future.’ Australia has faced successive natural disasters in recent years, with climate experts warning of more crises unless significant emissions reductions are achieved. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who came to power in 2022 promising stronger climate action, has been criticized for his government’s continued support of coal and gas projects.
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Mystery of dancing spiders’ DNA could explain how they develop into new species
Australia’s peacock spiders, known for their dazzling colors and intricate mating dances, are more than just a visual spectacle. With over 100 distinct species, these tiny arachnids, each no larger than a pinhead, exhibit an extraordinary level of diversity that has captivated scientists. Researchers are now delving into the genetic mysteries behind this phenomenon, focusing on a little-understood component of their DNA known as ‘dark DNA.’ This enigmatic part of the genetic code, which makes up a significant portion of the spiders’ genome, may hold the key to their rapid adaptation and speciation. Jonah Walker, a researcher at the Sanger Institute, explains that studying these spiders could shed light on the broader processes that drive variation in the natural world. ‘Peacock spiders are at the extreme end of diversity,’ he says. ‘By studying them, we can understand the mechanisms that produce such variation in general.’ The spiders’ unique mating rituals, which include rhythmic drumming sounds and vibrant abdominal displays, vary widely across species. Walker, who overcame his own arachnophobia to study these creatures, collaborated with Dr. Joana Meier and an international team to catalog each species’ behavior, movement, and songs. By cross-referencing this data with their DNA, the team aims to identify the genetic factors responsible for their traits. Early findings suggest that ‘dark DNA,’ which is three times more abundant in peacock spiders than in humans, may play a crucial role in their evolution. This research is part of the broader Earth BioGenome Project, which aims to decode the genetic sequences of all 1.8 million known species within the next decade. Dr. Meier emphasizes that understanding the DNA of diverse organisms, including spiders, butterflies, and moths, will provide unprecedented insights into the principles of genetics and evolution. ‘By studying the DNA of all living things, we not only learn about them but also about ourselves,’ she says. The project has already decoded 3,000 species, with plans to complete 10,000 more next year. The ultimate goal is to unravel the intricate web of life, offering a deeper understanding of how all organisms are interconnected.
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US influencer investigated over wild croc wrestling videos
Australian authorities are investigating US influencer Mike Holston, known as ‘The Real Tarzann,’ after he posted controversial videos of himself capturing wild crocodiles in Queensland. The footage, which has sparked widespread condemnation, shows Holston wrestling a freshwater crocodile and manhandling a juvenile saltwater crocodile, one of the world’s most aggressive reptiles. While Holston claims the videos were made for ‘educational purposes,’ wildlife experts and government officials have labeled his actions as ‘extremely dangerous and illegal.’
In one video, Holston is seen jumping into shallow water to chase a freshwater crocodile, which draws blood before he secures it. In another, he captures a seemingly limp saltwater crocodile in marshland. Both animals were later released, but experts have raised concerns about the stress and potential harm caused to the reptiles. Queensland officials have warned that such actions can result in fines of up to A$37,500, with on-the-spot penalties of A$8,345 for interfering with saltwater crocodiles.
The state government has also introduced new legislation to crack down on dangerous wildlife interactions, including penalties for unintentionally feeding crocodiles. Holston’s videos, while popular online, have drawn criticism from figures like Bob Irwin, father of the late naturalist Steve Irwin, who called for stricter penalties and condemned the influencer’s behavior. Irwin emphasized that handling crocodiles requires specialized skills to avoid causing stress or harm, and criticized social media for glorifying harmful wildlife interactions.
Holston has defended his actions, stating that the animals were released unharmed and that he does not encourage others to replicate his videos. This incident follows another controversy earlier this year involving a US influencer who was widely condemned for taking a baby wombat from the roadside. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese weighed in on that case, suggesting the influencer try the same with more dangerous animals. The ongoing backlash highlights growing concerns about the impact of social media on wildlife and the need for stricter enforcement of wildlife protection laws.
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Vaccine to curb chlamydia epidemic devastating koalas approved
In a groundbreaking development, a vaccine designed to combat the devastating chlamydia epidemic threatening Australia’s koala population has received regulatory approval. Scientists at the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) have spent over a decade developing this single-dose vaccine, which has shown promising results in reducing symptoms and mortality rates among wild koalas. Chlamydia, a disease transmitted through close contact or mating, has been a leading cause of koala deaths, accounting for up to 50% of fatalities in some regions. The disease causes severe health issues, including blindness, infertility, and often proves fatal. Traditional treatments, such as antibiotics, can be equally harmful, as they destroy the gut bacteria essential for digesting eucalyptus leaves, leading to starvation. The vaccine, tested on hundreds of wild koalas, has demonstrated a 65% reduction in mortality rates and a significant decrease in symptom development during breeding age. Despite the breakthrough, challenges remain. The rollout, slated to begin as early as January 2024, requires substantial funding to distribute the vaccine to wildlife hospitals, vet clinics, and at-risk populations. UniSC researchers hope to provide the vaccine for free but acknowledge the high costs associated with locating and inoculating wild koalas. Dr. Peter Timms, a microbiologist involved in the project, emphasized that while the vaccine is a critical step, it is not a standalone solution. Habitat loss, driven by land clearing, urbanization, and natural disasters, remains the most significant threat to koala survival. The Australian government has also taken steps to address habitat loss, with the New South Wales government recently announcing the creation of the Great Koala National Park, which will protect over 12,000 koalas and other threatened species. Environment Minister Murray Watt highlighted the vaccine’s role in ensuring future generations can still see koalas in the wild, while also focusing on species monitoring and habitat restoration. This milestone offers a glimmer of hope for the endangered koala population, but sustained efforts are needed to secure their long-term survival.
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Lone survivor of mushroom murders pleads to grieve in private as killer jailed for life
In a landmark ruling that has captivated Australia, Erin Patterson was sentenced to life in prison for the infamous mushroom poisoning case that claimed three lives and left one survivor. The sentencing took place on Monday at Melbourne’s Supreme Court, where Patterson, 50, was led out of the courtroom to begin her term. The case, which has drawn comparisons to an Agatha Christie novel, involved a deadly lunch in 2023 where Patterson served a meal laced with death cap mushrooms. The victims included her ex-husband’s parents and a close friend, while Ian Wilkinson, the sole survivor, continues to suffer from the aftermath. Wilkinson, a pastor, addressed the media outside the courthouse, expressing gratitude to law enforcement and medical professionals while urging kindness and respect for his family’s privacy. The trial revealed the meticulous planning behind the crime, with Justice Christopher Beale condemning Patterson’s actions as a “profound betrayal” of trust. Patterson, who maintained her innocence throughout, will be eligible for parole in 2056 at the age of 82. The case has sparked widespread media attention, with documentaries, podcasts, and books in the works, further amplifying the tragedy for the victims’ families. The community of Korumburra, where the families are rooted, has rallied around the survivors, offering support amidst the relentless public scrutiny.
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Australian triple murderer jailed for life over toxic mushroom lunch
In a landmark ruling, Erin Patterson, a 50-year-old Australian woman, has been sentenced to life imprisonment with no possibility of parole for at least 33 years for the murder of three relatives and the attempted murder of a fourth through a toxic mushroom meal. The sentence, one of the longest ever imposed on a female offender in Australia, ensures Patterson will be in her 80s before she can apply for release. The Supreme Court of Victoria described her crimes as belonging to the “worst category” of offenses, involving an “elaborate cover-up.”
Patterson was convicted of killing her in-laws, Don and Gail Patterson, both 70, and Gail’s sister, Heather Wilkinson, 66, after serving them a deadly beef Wellington dish at her home in Victoria in 2023. Heather’s husband, Ian Wilkinson, a local pastor, survived the poisoning but continues to suffer from severe health complications. Patterson’s estranged husband, Simon Patterson, narrowly avoided the fateful meal due to suspicions that his wife had been attempting to poison him for years.
Despite her claims of innocence, asserting that the toxic death cap mushrooms were accidentally included in the dish, Patterson was found guilty of three counts of murder and one count of attempted murder. Justice Christopher Beale emphasized the gravity of her crimes, imposing the maximum penalty while acknowledging the harsh conditions she faces in prison, including prolonged solitary confinement.
The case has drawn significant public and media attention, with the court permitting live television coverage of the sentencing—a first in its history. Outside the courtroom, Ian Wilkinson, the sole survivor, expressed gratitude to law enforcement and medical personnel while urging kindness among people. Patterson has 28 days to appeal both her sentence and the guilty verdicts.