A mixed bag for Australia’s environment

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MEDIA RELEASE
20 November 2013
Embargo: 11.30 am (Canberra Time)
198/2013

A mixed bag for Australia’s environment

Australians enjoy better-built environments, but we are still working towards managing our environment sustainably according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

ABS Director of Social and Progress Reporting, Fiona Dowsley said the latest Measures of Australia’s Progress (MAP) release shows environmental progress to be a varied picture.

“The health of our built environments has progressed. In 2012, 25 per cent of capital city residents felt that their city had a good road network and minimal traffic congestion. This was an increase from the 23 per cent who felt the same way in 2010”, said Ms Dowsley.

However, it is not all good news; the latest MAP update shows managing the environment sustainably has declined.

“Managing the environment sustainably in Australia has regressed. Over the last decade Australia’s net greenhouse gas emissions has increased.

“Australia emitted 547 million tonnes (Mt) of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2-e) in 2011. Although this was lower than the peak of 626 Mt CO2-e in 2007, it was higher than the 486 Mt CO2-e emitted in 2001”, said Ms Dowsley.

This new edition of MAP contains a range of information that helps Australians decide if life is getting better.

For further information about the how well the environment is progressing; and for information regarding society, economy and governance, please see the full online product, Measures of Australia's Progress 2013 at www.abs.gov.au/about/progress.

Media notes:
    · Interviews are available by calling ABS media on 1300 175 070.
    • When reporting ABS data the Australian Bureau of Statistics (or the ABS) must be attributed as the source.