Politicians and academics will gather at Murdoch University on Friday, August 10 to explore how the carbon tax and other initiatives are likely to affect the economy.
Featuring Senators Scott Ludlam (Greens) and Louise Pratt (Labor), the National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) Climate Change Forum will include brief presentations as well as a Q&A-style panel discussion.
Murdoch School of Engineering & Energy lecturer Adam McHugh will present his analysis of the carbon tax’s impact on a birthday cake and on GDP.
“Now that producers are paying $23 per tonne for their greenhouse gas emissions, the price of products delivered to final demand would be expected to rise. The natural question most people are asking is, by how much,” Mr McHugh said.
“The results might surprise a few people, both in terms of the scheme’s impact on low-energy intensive products and its long-term impact on prices.”
Mr McHugh found the carbon tax would raise the price of a $25 cake by a mere ten cents.
Other presenters include UWA Associate Professor Alex Gardner, who will look at the legal aspects of climate change, and Curtin University’s Associate Professor Linda Selvey, who explores health implications.
Senator Ludlam will look at how to position Australia on a renewable energy pathway while evaluating the country’s chances for a ‘clean energy future’.
The NTEU Climate Change Forum takes place from 12.30 to 2.30pm in Economics, Commerce & Law Lecture Theatre 3 (ECL3) on Murdoch’s South Street Campus.
Those interested in attending should contact Beth Cole at nteu@murdoch.edu.au by Monday, August 6. Tea, coffee and a light lunch will be provided. Spaces limited.
