Part 4/8:
Turning to industry, the focus shifts to Rio Tinto, a major mining and metals company, which advocates for a price on carbon—similar to the policy introduced under Prime Minister Julia Gillard’s government. The rationale is that carbon pricing is the most effective way to incentivize the private sector to lower emissions. However, the speaker criticizes this approach as primarily motivated by self-interest. Rio Tinto’s actions are portrayed as strategic, aiming to appear environmentally responsible while ultimately benefiting financially. The company’s support for carbon pricing is seen as a calculated move that aligns their interests with government policies rather than genuine environmental commitment.