Scott Morrison tells Cop26 Australia will exceed 2030 target in bid to fend off criticism

Glasgow conference is focused on more ambitious 2030 cuts but, while PM says Australia may cut emissions by 35%, the 26% to 28% target won't be changed

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Scott Morrison has used his national statement at the Cop26 to emphasise that Australia will probably overachieve on its 2030 emissions reduction target in an effort to blunt international criticism about his government's lack of climate ambition.

While the lead-up to the Glasgow summit was dominated by Morrison's negotiations with the National party to land a net zero commitment by 2050, the UN-led event is focused on ambition for the 2030s.