Climate change: Labor's nostalgia based on bad maths and worse politics

Labor's Misplaced Nostalgia for the CPRS

This article critiques Labor's assertion that the failure of its Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS) was due solely to the Greens' lack of support. It argues that the CPRS, even in its initial form, was poorly designed, with an unambitious target and excessive compensation for polluters.

Flaws in the CPRS

• The scheme's target was too low (5% below 2000 levels by 2020).
• It included significant compensation for polluting industries, requiring government subsidies until at least 2016.
• It didn't affect coal-fired power generation or cover agriculture.
• Further concessions to secure political support made the scheme even less effective.

The article contrasts the CPRS with Julia Gillard's subsequent carbon pricing scheme, highlighting the latter's superior design and effectiveness in reducing emissions.

Political missteps

The author also criticizes Labor's political strategy, including its failure to negotiate with the Greens and the detrimental impact of internal party conflicts. Rudd's decision to postpone an election, despite favorable polling, is seen as a critical error.

Conclusion

The article concludes that Labor's narrative is a simplification of a complex issue and that the CPRS would not have significantly reduced emissions. It emphasizes the importance of focusing on effective climate action rather than engaging in politically convenient revisionism.