Greenpeace Warns Against Gas Dependency
Greenpeace Japan and Greenpeace Australia Pacific have strongly criticised Prime Ministers Takaichi of Japan and Albanese of Australia for their roles in exacerbating the global fossil fuel crisis by reinforcing gas dependency. This criticism emerges as Prime Minister Takaichi prepares for his visit to Australia from 3rd May to 5th May, a trip that highlights the complex dynamics of energy politics.
During his visit, Prime Minister Takaichi is expected to discuss enhancing military cooperation and boosting Australia’s gas exports. Greenpeace claims that these actions primarily benefit Japanese corporations, such as Inpex, which profit from re-selling Australian gas to other countries. Alarmingly, the Japanese government reportedly earns more in taxes from these exports than the Australian government.
Ikumi Toyota, Climate Change and Energy Campaigner at Greenpeace Japan, expressed concerns about the implications of the visit. "Prime Minister Takaichi’s visit is a calculated move to exploit the fossil fuel crisis exposed by the war on Iran to entrench a gas trade that delivers billions to Japan, and even more to big gas corporations like Inpex, Woodside, and Santos," she stated.
Impact on Regional Energy Security
Greenpeace argues that Japan’s actions are hindering regional neighbours from transitioning to renewable energy, which is critical for reducing energy costs and preventing climate disasters. The organisation stresses that genuine energy security can only be achieved through a rapid transition to renewable sources.
Joe Rafalowicz, Head of Climate and Energy at Greenpeace Australia Pacific, criticised the gas trade, describing it as a 'sham'. He highlighted the tax advantages enjoyed by corporations like INPEX, which has paid a mere $500 million in corporate tax on $36 billion in revenue under Australia's Petroleum Resource Rent Tax (PRRT).
Prime Minister Takaichi’s agenda also includes a visit to Vietnam. There, he will promote the POWERR Asia initiative, which seeks to expand fossil fuel stockpiles across Asia. Greenpeace views this initiative as a significant threat to the region's shift towards renewable energy.
The visit to Australia, which concludes on 5th May, underscores the ongoing debate over energy strategies amidst a global fossil fuel crisis.
The backdrop of these discussions is the ongoing war on Iran, which has amplified the urgency of energy security debates worldwide. Greenpeace continues to advocate for a future powered by clean, renewable energy, urging leaders to prioritise sustainable solutions over short-term gains.
