Gas Energy Australia calls for recognition of the potential roles that natural gas can play in reducing emissions
August 15, 2013
In the lead up to the federal election, peak gas fuels body Gas Energy Australia (GEA)
is calling upon both major
political parties to recognise the potential roles that natural gas can play in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
Gas Energy Australia CEO Mike Carmody says that gas fuels can play a major role in combatting climate change.
“Labor, the Coalition and the Greens have all committed to cutting greenhouse gas emissions,” Carmody says.
“Their election policies should target greater use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and compressed natural gas (CNG) in Australia’s transport sector.”
Carmody goes on to say that, according to the Garnaut Report, “the transport sector contributed 14 per cent
of Australia’s net GHG emissions.
“Transport-related GHG emissions will double by 2050.
“Currently, Australia’s long-haul fleets and mining companies rely on diesel which is a poor cousin to LNG and CNG for environment and health outcomes.
“Importantly, last year the World Health Organisation concluded diesel exhaust is a carcinogen.”
LNG has found some adherents amongst heavy transport operators, though Western Australia remains the strongest performing market for natural gas.
Progress has been slow to date in rolling out refuelling infrastructure eastern states.
Evol LNG recently opened a refuelling station on the Victorian border at Wodonga, with another proposed in the Goulburn area in the New South Wales Southern Highlands.
“What Australia needs now is an incoming government to show strong leadership so the community get the full benefits of our native gas fuels,” Carmody
states
According to figures released by GEA, CNG can reduce GHG emissions by up to 17 per cent and LNG by up to 20 per cent.