As the Federal Government prepares to review the Safeguard Mechanism in 2026, major questions abound about whether Australia’s flagship climate and emissions policy is reducing pollution – or just allowing fossil fuel companies to keep polluting through so-called carbon offsets.

Join Associate Professor Fergus Green, University College London and Dr Richard Denniss for a timely Politics in the Pub discussion exploring the future of climate policy and the growing controversy surrounding carbon credits and offset markets that the Safeguard Mechanism relies upon.

This conversation will explore new analysis from The Australia Institute on how the Safeguard Mechanism relies on “net” abatement and offsets that critics argue lack integrity and permanence, while providing a safeguard for fossil fuel projects, and has failed to reduce emissions. The evening will also explore how Australia’s current approach compares with emerging international legal obligations and global commitments to transition away from fossil fuels.

SPEAKERS:

Dr Richard Denniss – co-Chief Executive Officer, The Australia Institute

Fergus Green – Associate Professor, University College London

Louise Morris – Advocate, The Australia Institute