Push on native forest waste threatens RET deal

The future of the Renewable Energy Target remains in the balance, with no hint of a final compromise.

But a long running argument over burning waste and residues from Australia’s native forests threatens to undermine the prospects for any peace deal on the RET.

In addition, Prime Minister Tony Abbott has backed trials for another contentious proposal that will use machinery to ‘thin’ Australia’s forests.

It’s claimed that this will reduce the risk of bushfires, and it’s almost certain that the forest thinnings will qualify for renewable energy credits – if the Government succeeds in changing the RET rules.

Listen to the audio on the ABC website