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As Australia heads into its May 3 election, climate change is at the forefront, with all major parties outlining bold energy and climate agendas. Meanwhile, a new global ocean protection initiative is pushing for the conservation of 30% of coastal waters by 2030, targeting regions like the Philippines and Indonesia. In Pakistan, escalating tensions over the Indus River water dispute and rising flood risks in Gilgit-Baltistan highlight the country’s mounting climate challenges.

🌍Global Climate Watch

Climate central in election campaigning

With Australia’s May 3 election looming, all major parties are framing ambitious climate and energy platforms. The ruling Labor Party has pledged 82% renewables by 2030 (cutting emissions 43% from 2005 levels) and is funding solar storage and batteries to help meet those goals​. The opposition Coalition is also promising cheaper energy bills and more gas supply, but it uniquely proposes lifting Australia’s long-standing ban on nuclear power to reduce coal use​r. (The Greens, meanwhile, oppose new gas or nuclear.) Voters are watching how each plan balances affordable energy with climate commitments. reuters.com

Global ocean protection initiative launched

A new “Revive Our Ocean” program was unveiled this week to help communities benefit from protecting at least 30% of coastal waters by 2030​. The NGO-led initiative (backed by National Geographic Pristine Seas) will initially target regions in Europe and Asia, such as coastal communities in the Philippines and Indonesia, to establish new marine protected areas​. Organizers note that marine reserves can improve fish stocks and support local tourism, and they hope to accelerate progress toward the “30 by 30” ocean conservation target agreed globally in 2023. reuters.com

Pakistan Climate Watch

Indus River water dispute escalates

Farmers in Pakistan’s Sindh province are alarmed by India’s vow to cut off Indus River water flows following renewed tensions. One farmer near Sukkur warned that if India “stops water, all of this will turn into the Thar desert” and people “will die of hunger”​. Pakistani leaders have said any Indian attempt to divert headwaters would be akin to “an act of war.” The standoff has escalated fears that already-water-stressed Pakistan could face a severe irrigation crisis in coming months ​reuters.com​.

Gilgit-Baltistan Faces Glacial Lake Outburst Flood Risks

The region of Gilgit-Baltistan is at heightened risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) due to intensified and unpredictable downpours, posing significant threats to local communities and infrastructure. ​The Diplomatic Insight

📊 🌍 Climate Fact Of The Day

The earth is really under the weather.

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