Environment
Climate change
Editorial
Climate policy
Brace for the return of El Nino, but we’re better prepared this time
The UN declaration that El Nino conditions have developed in the tropical Pacific for the first time in seven years puts Australia in the unenviable position of being the most vulnerable nation in the developed world.
- The Herald's View
Latest
Trade winds: Shipping is turning back to sails after a century
The world is locked in debate over the cost of cutting maritime emissions. A few key players are quietly showing how an ancient technology can do it for free.
- by Nick O'Malley
Opinion
Bushfires
Canada learnt from its Black Summer moment. Why haven’t we?
The Canadian government is poised to end fossil fuel subsidies. Australia’s policymakers are heading in the opposite direction.
- by Greg Mullins
Exclusive
Climate policy
Australia sides with China, Russia in bid to sink Pacific nations’ climate plan
Despite the government’s vow to act on climate and strengthen ties with the Pacific, Australia has declined to back a plan to clean up global shipping.
- by Nick O'Malley
Tony Wright’s column
Energy storage
Yearning for the old woodheap in a winter of confusion
In a time of climate change, with coal-fired power on the nose and citizens being urged to ditch gas, the author recalls a vanished, uncomplicated period.
- by Tony Wright
Hottest year on record? The five charts showing unprecedented global warmth
2023 is outpacing previous years – and there’s a looming El Nino that’s likely to worsen the hot weather.
- by Laura Chung
Analysis
Climate policy
Leaders gathered for nine days of climate talks. It took them eight to agree on an agenda
The UN chief launched a scathing attack on world leaders after delegates at a climate conference in Bonn couldn’t even agree on an agenda for the meeting.
- by Nick O'Malley
Baby got back(up): Australia embraces the big battery
Hazelwood, in Victoria’s Latrobe Valley, is the first retired coal-fired power station to host a large-scale battery in Australia. But are we building them fast enough?
- by Miki Perkins