Every week, we bring you the biggest stories shaping the future of our planet. Usually it’s a mix of climate warnings, political foot-dragging, and global power plays — but this week, let’s start on a positive note.
Because while governments keep gaslighting us, protecting polluters, and stalling on real action, there are glimmers of hope worth celebrating.
A Positive Story: Australia’s Vast New Marine Reserve
Off the coast of Western Australia, the Exmouth Gulf — a 2,600 sq km stretch of coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass meadows — is finally being recognised for what it is: extraordinary.
The Gulf is home to Australia’s largest population of dugongs, as well as a vital stop-off for migrating humpback whales. This week, it was announced that Exmouth will become a protected marine reserve, with 30% of its waters off-limits to fishing. Even better, it will be jointly managed with First Nations communities.
Of course, the details aren’t all locked in yet, and industrial port projects are still looming in the background. But in a world where most headlines scream “bad news,” it’s worth pausing to celebrate this win. Because protecting biodiversity is just as important as cutting carbon.
Canberra’s Climate Tightrope
Back to the bigger picture. The Albanese Government is preparing to announce Australia’s 2035 emissions target. This could shape the next decade of our climate policy — but if history is anything to go by, expect a lot of political theatre.
The choice is simple:
- Set weak targets → Australia lags, industries cheer, and the planet cooks.
- Set bold targets → we finally catch up with the world, but the gas lobby will fight tooth and nail.
Australians aren’t asking for miracles — just honest action. Yet too often, governments side with polluters instead of people.
Gas Expansion vs Rock Art Protection
Meanwhile, in the northwest, the North West Shelf gas project has just been extended until 2070. Yes — 2070. That means fossil fuel expansion is being locked in for nearly 50 more years, right next to ancient Indigenous rock art sites.
The project comes with some “partial protections,” but it’s clear whose interests are being prioritised. Once again, big polluters win, while communities and culture are left negotiating the scraps.
Who’s Leading? Spoiler: Not Us
While Australia dithers, China is accelerating clean energy at scale. Solar, wind, EVs — it’s not just about climate, it’s about economics and influence. Australia risks becoming a fossil-fuel backwater while the world’s largest economies shape the energy systems of tomorrow.
It’s frustrating — because we’ve got sun, wind, space, and talent. What we lack is political courage.
Why This Matters for You
So yes, we’ll celebrate the marine reserve. But we won’t ignore the bigger story: Australia still lags while others lead. Governments continue to protect polluters, gas projects keep getting the green light, and climate policy remains a balancing act tilted toward industry.
That’s why action has to come from us. Each footprint, each choice, each offset makes a difference.
Take our quick quiz, discover your carbon footprint, and choose an offset option that suits you. It’s time to stop waiting for politicians to do the right thing — and start doing it ourselves.