Sources of greenhouse gas emissions in Victoria include:
- the energy sector
- transport
- agriculture
- industrial processes
- use of synthetic gases, such as in refrigeration, air conditioning and electrical equipment
- waste, including from landfills and wastewater treatment
- clearance of forested land.
Greenhouse gases include:
- carbon dioxide
- methane
- nitrous oxide
- sulfur hexafluoride
- hydrofluorocarbon or a perfluorocarbon specified in the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Act 2007.
Greenhouse gas emissions and the law
The general environmental duty applies to managing greenhouse gas emissions.
The Victorian Government is working towards net zero emissions by 2045. Through its Climate Change Strategy, it has set interim targets for 2025, 2030 and 2035. Achieving these targets is a shared responsibility across industry, government and the community.
In some cases, we consider your greenhouse gas emissions in permission applications. Our permissions focus on activities that may have a significant impact on human health and the environment. Permissions have conditions that must be followed.
Learn more about climate change requirements for permissions.
Our role in greenhouse gas emissions
We:
- provide advice and guidance for reducing greenhouse gas emissions
- highlight those who are reducing emissions and managing climate change risks well
- monitor businesses to make sure they are complying with their permission conditions
- look into notifications of pollution, including greenhouse gas pollution
- enforce the law.
Learn more about how to minimise greenhouse gas emissions from your business.
Learn more about our role in managing climate change risks.
Impact of greenhouse gas emissions on your health
Greenhouse gas emissions pose risks to our environment and human health. This is because they contribute to climate change risks.
Climate change impacts on health and wellbeing are many and varied. For more information, visit the Department of Health website.
Reduce household greenhouse gas emissions
Everyone has a role to play in reducing the emissions they generate.
Sources of household greenhouse gas emissions include:
- electricity use – for example, heating, cooling, lighting and electrical appliances
- water use
- combustion of fuels such as petrol and diesel in vehicles for transport
- burning gas for heating, hot water and cooking
- waste.
To learn how you can reduce your household greenhouse gas emissions, visit:
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