SO … GAS. GOOD OR BAD?

THAT might be the wrong question. Debate seems to settle on whether it’s a necessary part of our transition to net zero. Former Chief Scientist Alan Finkel (inset) has been one defender, saying natural was more reliable as a back-up for renewables than batteries or pumped hydro-electricity.

“It’s very easy to characterise the argument as binary, good versus bad, black versus white,” Mr McConville said. “It’s grey, and it needs to be understood that one can be completely factual without being factually complete.

“We need to ensure we’re factually complete when we’re considering all these options as we go forward.

“There is no silver bullet in taking climate action and all options need to be considered to help Australia reach net zero,” he said.