10 August 2009

Weak target weakens New Zealand’s prospects

Prime Minister John Key is running from responsibility with a weak 2020 emissions target, softening our negotiating position and further undermining our clean, green brand.

“New Zealanders want to do their fair share, but John Key wants to pike out,” Green Party MP Jeanette Fitzsimons said today.

“Kiwis want a stronger target, the world demands a stronger target and our kids deserve a stronger target.

“Last week the Green Party showed how New Zealand could achieve an affordable, more ambitious target, but the Government prefers to ignore the opportunities.

“Mr Key has failed to show leadership on this issue, wanting to do as little as possible while choosing the lowest target he thinks will preserve our tarnished international reputation. But why would other countries accept such a lacklustre number when they know we have real emission reduction opportunities?

“Our opening bid is too low. Hopefully New Zealanders will convince the Government to up its game as the negotiations progress towards Copenhagen. This debate has only just begun, and it’s time we had a real conversation about what is possible.”

In their report, Getting there, the Green Party outlined affordable emissions reductions that could take New Zealand three-quarters of the way towards a 40 percent target. The balance could be purchased overseas.

“Any future Government that the Greens are part of will lift the game. The challenges presented by climate change are immense, but the opportunities for New Zealand are also great,” Ms Fitzsimons said.

For details of the Green’s affordable emissions reduction plan:
http://www.greens.org.nz/sites/default/files/BigAffordableClimateChange_1.pdf

ENDS

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