Australia could get to zero net emissions by 2050, without compromising prosperity or economic opportunities, data suggests.

Research released today shows that it is becoming easier to see a minimal-emissions future for all major countries, if the right choices are made.

“Our report published today shows the Australian options for deep decarbonisation of our economy while still maintaining economic prosperity, in a decarbonising world,” says Australian National University researcher Frank Jotzo.

The report, Pathways to Deep Decarbonisation in 2050: How Australia can prosper in a low carbon world, suggests Australia can reach net zero emissions by 2050 while the economy continues to grow at a similar rate as today — 2.4% of GDP per year.

The documents were prepared by ClimateWorks Australia and the Australian National University drawing on modelling from the CSIRO and Victoria University’s Centre for Policy Studies, using the same modelling tools as previous analyses by Treasury, the Garnaut Review and other studies.

It says decarbonisation of energy systems in all countries relies on three pillars: ambitious energy efficiency; low carbon electricity; and electrification and fuel switching.

The experts behind the report say there is a range of possible pathways, using existing technologies, to a 2050 decarbonised and prosperous Australia.

ClimateWorks Australia and the ANU, with support of CSIRO and Victoria University's Centre for Policy Studies (CoPS), have now submitted their findings to the UN’s Sustainable Development Solutions Network.