Rebalancing Regional and Remote Australia: a vision for a global carbon sink while creating sustainable communities

Abstract

This paper introduces a visionary strategy, Rebalancing Regional and Remote Australia. It aims at transforming Australia into a significant global carbon sink by sequestering 4 gigatonne (Gt) of CO2 equivalent annually, leveraging about 25% of the nation’s landmass. Addressing the unique challenges of Australia’s arid climate, the plan employs innovative, proven solutions in energy, water, and agriculture, including agrivoltaics, to enhance sustainability across diverse environmental and socioeconomic contexts. A central pillar of the plan is the creation of sustainable regional and remote communities. Designed for scalability, it begins with a pilot community of 100 000 residents, showcasing the initiative’s feasibility and potential for significant return on investment. Beyond its environmental objectives, the plan presents substantial business opportunities, positioning Australia as a leader in global sustainability efforts. Through collaborative innovation, it offers a model for national and international action, highlighting the imperative for comprehensive strategies that promote economic, environmental, and social advancement.