Why the news from Tasmania matters
By: Selman Razaq
Tags: Australia, Global Warming, Renewable Energy, Sustainability, Green Energy

As of November 2020, Tasmania became one of few jurisdictions in the world entirely supplied by renewable sources of energy. The fact they did it 2 years ahead of their own 2022 target is testament to the efforts taken by the people involved in the project.

Why should we, those who live no where near Tasmania, care?

Here’s why.

The importance of the switch to renewable sources such as wind, hydroelectricity and solar are recognised by environmentalists around the world. However, the move away from traditional sources that rely on fossil fuels has so far, seen few tangible results. With some important exceptions, of course.

One of those is Scotland, which is on track to becoming fully reliant on renewable energy by the end of 2020. Boris Johnson describing the UK as the Saudi Arabia of wind was with the advancements made in Scotland in mind.

Iceland is not far behind in its switch to renewables, with its strong supply of hydro and geothermal energy now supplemented by wind. Costa Rica is on track to achieving similar results as well, with its primary source of hydro supplemented by wind, geothermal and solar.

Why have all these places achieved this remarkable milestone? Perhaps more importantly, why have wealthier, more powerful nations not done the same thing yet?

Costa Rica is by no means a wealthy nation. Tasmania has the lowest GSP (gross state product) out of all Australian states. Clearly, wealth is not the primary determinant here.

It could be the geographical features distinct to these places. After all, not many places are as windy as Scotland. Or have as many rivers for dams to be built on as Costa Rica. Or have as much volcanic activity and hot springs as Iceland.

There is however, evidence to the contrary.

The USA for one, produces more geothermal energy than Iceland, though its energy requirement is significantly greater than that of the smaller island nation. Renewables only make up 17.6% of the country’s energy production. A measly figure, considering the economic and technological might of the country.

So what is it that prevents countries such as the USA which has the resources to go renewable from doing so?

The answer, as most with knowledge of the energy industry would agree, comes down to regulation.

It is the reason why Tasmania succeeded. Why Costa Rica was able to outdo other nations with greater wealth. And why the Scotland and Iceland are so close to becoming fully reliant on renewables.

They are doing this years before most of the world’s nations will. And I don’t say that to slander other nations. I say that, because the ones who have already done it must be applauded.

If years of scientific research has not convinced the people and governments to take action, perhaps the peer pressure and shame from not doing the right thing will.

We need to take action, now. The window is closing on irreversible damage to our environment. Some say we are already past that point. But I like to be an optimist, and optimism gives hope. Hope that we are not as doomed as some believe. That we do have a way back and course correct ourselves to better protect our beloved planet.

The shift will be a long road with many challenges. But as long as we recognise its importance and persevere with the mission, positive change is very much on the horizon. It will take considerable effort from governments and regulatory authorities around the world. And the educated citizens including you and I will need to keep reminding the leaders, of the mission. And perhaps more importantly, the goal -

To leave a better planet for those who come after us, than the one we were given.