How do I set appropriate targets based on this data?

There are three key parameters to consider when setting a community-wide emissions reduction target: what is necessary, what is achievable and who is accountable?

You can access a target from Science Derived Targets for Local Government, which provides a consistent, equitable approach for setting a community-wide emissions reduction target. Science derived targets are generated in line with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the Paris Agreement. The process involves scaling the global carbon budget down to the national and then local level.

The timeframe for setting a target can vary, with leading communities and councils working to achieve net zero emissions by 2030. For all Australian councils, a science derived target in line with 2°C warming will require zero emissions within the next 8-15 years, or 0-9 years for 1.5°C.

Rapid reduction of emissions to zero will reduce the threat of severe climate change and costly adaptation measures. Snapshot profiles provide communities and councils with an understanding of the scale of reduction and the level of ambition needed when setting targets to meet this challenge. For more information contact us at hello@snapshotclimate.com.au