Ambitious 2035 emissions reductions targets give Australia the best shot at preserving the Great Barrier Reef, according to a Climate Change Authority report.
The report calls on Australia to adopt the "no regret" strategy for the sake of one of the nation's biggest natural assets and tourist attractions.
The authority, which advises government, singles in on two key opportunities to spearhead global efforts to drive down emissions, as the federal government prepares to unveil new 2035 targets in coming months.
It urges "ambitious" targets that offer credible pathway to cut emissions globally to maximise the chance of preserving the reef, which is under increasing threat.
"Addressing both domestic and offshore emissions will be critical," it notes.
The report also points to making the most of a joint bid with the Pacific to host the COP31 climate conference, which offers a platform to drive international momentum in areas that increase the odds to holding global warming to 1.5C.
"Acting now to increase emissions reductions is a 'no regrets' strategy" the report says.
"While parts of the Great Barrier Reef have already been significantly altered by climate warming, deeper and faster reductions will maximise the chance of preserving this natural asset for the future."
This week, the United Nations ramped up pressure on Australia to set a more ambitious climate target and cut emissions by 60 per cent.
Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen insists Australia is on track to meet the 2030 target, which is 43 per cent.
