Abbott’s early views on climate change
Tony Abbott entered politics in the early 1990s, and his views on climate change have evolved over time. In the early days, Abbott was more open to the possibility of human-induced climate change. However, in the late 1990s, he began to adopt a more skeptical stance.
In a 1997 article, Abbott wrote: “The evidence that human activity is causing global warming is overwhelming.” However, by 2000, he was writing that “the science of global warming is far from settled.”
Abbott as Prime Minister: Climate change denial and inaction
Abbott became Prime Minister of Australia in 2013. During his time in office, he took a number of steps to dismantle Australia’s climate change policies. He repealed Australia’s carbon price, abolished the Climate Change Commission, and defunded the Australian Renewable Energy Agency.
Abbott also repeatedly downplayed the risks of climate change and the need for action. He famously described the “so-called settled science of climate change” as “absolute crap.” He also said that climate change was “probably doing good” and that there was “no scientific consensus” on the issue.
Abbott’s legacy on climate change
Abbott’s policies and rhetoric on climate change have had a significant impact on Australia’s climate policy. Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions have increased since Abbott took office, and the country is now on track to miss its emissions reduction targets.
Abbott’s climate change denialism has also damaged Australia’s reputation on the world stage. In 2015, Abbott was widely criticized for his opposition to a global climate deal at the Paris COP21 summit.
Conclusion
Tony Abbott is a controversial figure in Australian politics, and his views on climate change have been widely criticized. His climate change denial and inaction have had a significant impact on Australia’s climate policy and reputation.
