The week in Climate and Nuclear News- Australia

NUCLEAR The world was jolted into a renewed awareness of nuclear war danger, today, as North Korea conducted another nuclear bomb test. It may also be miniaturising nuclear warheads, to fit on a missile. President Obama has stated that America will stick to the principle of being willing to make a pre-emptive nuclear strike. However, the “Red Button” nuclear war system can be reformed: Donald Trump’s rise illustrates the need for this. Nuclear war risks lessened by Iran nuclear deal, which should continue in USA’s next administration. Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty has enduring value.

CLIMATE. The world had better pay attention NOW – to soaring ocean temperatures. Effect of Global Warming on World’s Ocean Circulation is an unknown quantity. More frequent, more powerful Super Typhoons, with climate change. Flooding – a dire hazard to nuclear power stations. USA and China formally ratify Paris climate agreement. Coal lobby is urged to copy tactics of the tobacco lobby!

AUSTRALIA

French anti-nuclear activists force Australian delegation to leave National Radioactive Waste Management Agency (ANDRA).

Australian uranium companies notorious for exploitation of African communities.

South Australia. Hawker in the middle of the earthquake hazard zone, close to federal govt’s planned nuclear waste dump site.

CLIMATE High Profile Members of Climate Change Authority slam ‘Untrue and Dangerous’ report. Climate Change Authority Special Review: Minority Report. Meaningless climate weasel words from Environment Minister Josh Frydenberg. Australia the Pacific Pariah as it idolises coal. Australia an international pariah? as other nations ratify Paris Climate Agreement.

ENERGY

South Australian govt makes a change- to purchase 75 per cent of its long-term electricity needs.

Queensland. Renewable energy future – Hybrid Solar and Wind Systems ? Queensland is getting one. Queensland University of Technology to divest its fossil fuel shares.

ENERGY Sharp falls predicted for Australia’s thermal coal exports.

Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) funding 12 large scale solar projects. Australian Renewable Energy Agency negotiating with govt, trying to save its funding. Farmers get economic safety net, thanks to wind farms. Solar power in Australia working better than expected. Geothermal energy – not necessarily renewable, nor environmentally benign.