NZ disappointing target not enough to stop dangerous climate change

The New Zealand Government is letting down the world and the Pacific by failing to commit to do its share on climate change, said WWF today.

“The Government’s new climate target is well below what is needed to play our part in stopping climate change, said Chris Howe, Executive Director, WWF.

The Government today announced a target of reducing emissions by 30% by 2030 from 2005 levels, shifting the baseline from 1990. It is a target of 11% below 1990 levels.

“It is deeply disappointing that the Government has chosen not to set a meaningful target that will move us to a climate safe future.

“New Zealand has one of the highest per capita emissions in the world and we are undermining our international reputation by failing to act.

“There are real actions that New Zealand can take now to reduce our emissions, and the longer we leave it the harder it will be.

“The Government's long term target is to reduce emissions by 50% from 1990 levels by 2050 – they will not reach this with the weak 2030 target announced today.

“To really make a contribution on climate change and be taken seriously, NZ needs to commit to a reduction of 40% from 1990 levels by 2030.

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