Heavy industry decarbonisation: insights from the BHP leaks

Dr Huw McKay shares insights on corporate decisions, investment dynamics, policy influences, and actions to drive stronger decarbonisation outcomes.

Industrial decarbonisation has returned to the spotlight following the “BHP leaks,” which reveal how major corporations make internal decisions on emissions reduction. In this seminar, Dr Huw McKay (Crawford School of Public Policy; former Chief Economist at BHP) explores the evolving landscape for private sector investment in heavy industry decarbonisation. He will discuss how corporate goals and targets are set, the role of broader investment and capital allocation processes, and the influence of policy, financial, and operational environments on decision-making. The talk will also highlight key lessons for policymakers, investors, and advocates, and outline practical actions to realign incentives and accelerate more ambitious industry decarbonisation.