National has concerns with the Zero Carbon Bill as reported back from Select Committee and we have outlined the changes
we’d like to see, National’s Climate Change spokesperson Scott Simpson says.
National seeks the following changes to the Zero Carbon Bill:
1. That the target for biological methane reduction be recommended by the independent Climate Change Commission.
2. That the Bill make clear the stated aim of the Paris Agreement is for greenhouse gas reduction to occur in a
manner that does not threaten food production. Currently the Bill cherry-picks from the Agreement.
3. Strengthen provisions that consider the level of action being taken by other countries and allow targets to be
adjusted to ensure we remain in step with the international community.
4. That the Bill ensure the Commission consider economic impacts when providing advice on targets and emissions
reductions.
5. That the Bill ensure the Commission consider the appropriate use of forestry offsets, and have regard for the
carbon sink represented by tree crops, riparian planting, and other farm biomass.
6. That emissions budgets be split between biogenic methane and carbon dioxide as recommended by the Parliamentary
Commissioner for the Environment.
7. That the Bill include a greater commitment to investment in innovation and research and development to find new
solutions for reducing emissions.
“These changes would improve the Bill and ensure it is in line with National’s climate change principles of taking a
pragmatic technological and science-based approach.
“National believes the Bill will negatively impact the New Zealand economy and increase costs to Kiwi families and
businesses while slowing GDP growth. We think those negative impacts should be made clear to New Zealanders.
“The changes we are seeking would ensure incentives drive the right long-term change and that the wider impact on
economy, jobs and incomes are fully factored in. We need to protect everyday New Zealanders as our emissions reduce.”