Climate and Air
The emissions that we release into the atmosphere can affect the quality of the air we breathe or may build up in the atmosphere leading to climate change
The topics in this theme describe air quality in NSW and the effects of carbon emissions on our climate, as well as how climate change already affects, or will affect, all aspects of our environment.
For an overview of this theme, including Aboriginal perspectives click on the heading.
In 2019 greenhouse gas emissions for NSW were 136.6 million tonnes CO2-e. Emissions peaked in 2007 and are now 17% lower than 2005 levels.
NSW air quality is generally good or very good and consistently complies with national air quality standards for carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, lead and sulfur dioxide.
The climate of NSW is changing due to global warming.
The NSW Government has an objective to achieve a 50% reduction in emissions on 2005 levels by 2030 and to reach net zero emissions by 2050.