New Zealand Urged To 'At Least Match' EU Carbon Emissions Reduction Target

New Zealand is targeting overseas carbon markets to meet any climate commitments. The government has been warned that setting a carbon target will not be easy since the New Zealand Greens have slammed the country’s climate change consultation for its “lack of ambition.”

The Greens called the document “seriously flawed” as the document highlighted the costs of reducing greenhouse gas emissions at home. New Zealand’s climate change consultation claimed that the country would allow emissions to increase by 10 up to 20 percent for the same level of cost as the EU’s 40 percent reduction from 1990 to 2030.

New Zealand Climate Change Minister Tim Groser wrote in the foreword of the report that the country remains committed to doing its fair share to reduce emissions but it will “not be easy.” The Guardian reports that the average New Zealander gives off 17 tonnes of greenhouse gases a year compared to the global average of 8 tonnes.

Half of New Zealand’s emissions are from agriculture, which Groser described as “our hardest problem to address.” The government report said forests planted since 1990 have helped offset emissions in the country. With 80 percent of electricity powered by renewable energy, the government report has found there was less room to reduce emissions on this aspect.

New Zealand’s climate change report has concluded that the country would likely need access to international carbon markets to help meet its target. The government has estimated the costs to reduce household emissions between 5 and 40 percent. The cost were predicted to cost households between NZ$1,270 to $1,800 a year in 2027.

The New Zealand Greens have slammed the report because of its focus on costs. Green MP Russel Norman said the document was unbalanced and inaccurate. “Fighting climate change need not cost households,” he added.

Norman believes the New Zealand government is trying to commit to a decent target and make it “look expensive” to suit its political goal of “doing nothing.” The Green Party is urging the government to at least match EU’s target of 40 percent emissions cut by 2030.

Members of the Green Party fasted last week to highlight the effects of climate change, reports Radio NZ. About 14 MPs took part in the movement, Fast For The Climate, which began after Typhoon Haiyan devastated the Philippines. Those who fasted gathered in front of Parliament to call on the government to make a better commitment to reduce greenhouse gases in New Zealand.

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