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:
ENDS