<p>In Australia, the start of 2016 brought heatwaves and heat spells to most of the continent.</p>
<p>Despite the record heat, there has been very little action in Australia following the negotiation of the world’s first universal climate agreement in Paris late last year.</p>
<p>Australia’s emissions are likely to continue to rise in the absence of any policies to encourage a rapid reduction in fossil fuel emissions and a transition towards renewable energy.</p>
<p>The time frame in which we can avoid many of the most catastrophic impacts of climate change continues to narrow as the carbon budget is rapidly running out.</p>
<p>The task is becoming more urgent; every year matters.</p>
<p>[adapted from source]</p>