Liberal Party leaders in Australia are facing internal turmoil following a recent decision to abandon their commitment to net zero emissions. This shift has raised concerns among moderate members of the party about their future in upcoming elections. The decision was made during a Liberal party room meeting, where a majority of members called for an end to the net zero goal, which had been part of the party's platform for four years.

Key figures in the party, including Angus Taylor, Andrew Hastie, and Matt Canavan, have been seen actively engaging in fitness activities, which some interpret as a metaphor for their political ambitions. Hastie and fellow conservative James Paterson were notably seen smiling after the meeting, indicating their approval of the new direction. However, this enthusiasm starkly contrasts with the anxiety felt by moderate members, who are now questioning how they will retain their inner-city seats in the next election.

The confusion surrounding the party's new stance stems from its decision to reject net zero while still supporting the Paris Agreement, which requires significant emissions reductions. Dan Tehan and Sussan Ley, who are leading the party's new climate policy, have faced criticism for what many perceive as an inconsistent approach. The United Nations has outlined that to meet the Paris Agreement's goals, emissions must be reduced by 45% by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050. This framework was previously endorsed by the Liberal Party under former Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

Ley attempted to downplay the contradictions in the party's new policy, stating, "We will look Australians in the eye and say this is a plan to bring down emissions and to provide affordable energy for you." However, critics have labeled the party's position as a "smoke and mirrors game," with One Nation leader Pauline Hanson asserting that the Liberals are trying to appease everyone but ultimately satisfying no one.

As the Liberal Party negotiates with the National Party to establish a unified climate and energy policy, the pressure is mounting. The new plan closely resembles the position previously articulated by Nationals leader David Littleproud. This alignment suggests that the Liberals are conceding significant ground to their junior coalition partner, including dismantling many of Labor's existing policies.

The ramifications of abandoning net zero could be severe for Ley's leadership. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has criticized the decision, stating that it represents a regression for the Liberal Party and undermines job creation and investment certainty. He noted that the party's shift could alienate voters, especially given the historical volatility of public opinion on climate issues.

In the backdrop of this political upheaval, the government is also grappling with its bid to host the next United Nations climate summit. Australia is in competition with Türkiye for the hosting rights, and if an agreement cannot be reached, the event will default to Germany. The government has been cautious in its approach, particularly as it faces scrutiny over the potential costs associated with hosting the summit, which could exceed $2 billion.

A former diplomat has warned that organizing such a significant event would be a monumental task, requiring extensive government commitment and resources. The upcoming weeks will be critical for Ley as she navigates the challenges posed by her party's internal divisions and the broader implications of their climate policy shift. With the political landscape shifting rapidly, the pressure is on for the Liberal Party to clarify its position and regain the trust of its constituents.