Rt Hon John Key
Prime Minister

1 December 2015

National Statement from New Zealand
UN Climate Change Conference, Paris

Mr President,

Let me begin by again conveying my condolences to the victims of the attacks here in Paris, to the people of Paris and the French Republic.

The people of New Zealand stand with you and New Zealand remains committed to global efforts to counter terrorism.

Against that backdrop I would like to acknowledge what a significant moment this is.

Over 150 countries working together to address climate change.

While New Zealand’s emissions are small on a global scale, we are determined to make a strong contribution to the international effort.

That’s why we have set ourselves a target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to 30 per cent below 2005 levels, by 2030.

New Zealand faces unique domestic challenges in reducing emissions.

Almost 80 per cent of our electricity already comes from renewable energy and around half of our emissions are from agriculture - where there are not yet cost effective ways of reducing emissions.

However we are working hard to change that.

In 2009 we formed the Global Research Alliance on Agricultural Greenhouse Gases, which looks at ways of reducing emissions from livestock, cropping and rice production.

They are doing some great work and I’m pleased to announce that New Zealand will boost its funding by $20 million to capitalise on some new research to reduce methane emissions.

Our emissions trading scheme – the first outside the EU ¬– remains our key policy tool in reducing emissions.

We are currently reviewing the scheme, with a view to strengthening its provisions and deliver further reductions in emissions.

Although we have one of the highest rates of renewable electricity in the world, we want to go even further.

We’ve set ourselves a target of 90 per cent of renewable electricity by 2025 and are well on our way to achieving that.

We are also committed to helping our Pacific neighbours secure a future built on reliable and clean energy.

Today I am announcing New Zealand will provide up to $200 million for climate related support over the next four years, most of which will benefit Pacific Nations.

Subsidies for fossil fuels present a huge obstacle to innovation and progress in much of the world.

Earlier today I delivered UNFCCC Executive Secretary, Christiana Figueres, a message on behalf of close to 40 nations calling for the removal of fossil fuel subsidies.

These are practical initiatives aimed at getting real outcomes.

Mr President,

We don’t want just any deal.

We want one that genuinely fulfils the Durban mandate.

New Zealand, and every country here, is determined play its part and make a real difference.

If not for us, then for our future generations.

Thank you.

ENDS

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