Origin Steps Up Emission Reduction Studies

Australian energy supplier Origin Energy is to step up studies into emission reduction projects in developing countries following Australia's ratification of the Kyoto Protocol yesterday.

Under the protocol, Origin's investments in emission reduction projects could allow it certified emission allowances on overseas projects to use as credit back in Australia, the company told Bloomberg.

The company says it is currently looking at projects, particularly in the Pacific, where it has a liquefied petroleum gas business.

Australia will now become a full member of the Kyoto Protocol by the end of March, reversing the policy of former Prime Minister John Howard.

Under the protocol, the country must limit increases in greenhouse gas emissions by 2012.

By staff writer