Productivity commission endorses Zero Carbon Act as key to fix climate crisis.
Generation Zero welcomes the Productivity Commission’s recently released draft report supporting a Zero Carbon Act to facilitate an urgent transition to a low-emissions economy.
“We’re stoked to see the Productivity Commission adopting so many of recommendations in our submission. ” said Zero
Carbon Act Spokesperson Lisa McLaren.
“In particular, they have fully endorsed our proposal for a cross-party Zero Carbon Act which will elevate the needs of
our people and our planet above the everyday bickering of politicians.”
“It’s clear from the report that Generation Zero’s proposal for a Zero Carbon Act has wide support, with diverse groups
such as Z Energy, DairyNZ and the Environmental Defence Society endorsing this approach. We are looking forward to
continuing to engage with them and the public when the public consultation opens in June and July.”
“The message is clear from the experts and the public: we need urgent leadership from across the political spectrum and
we need it now.”
About the Zero Carbon Act
What is the Zero Carbon Act?
The Zero Carbon Act is a legal framework based on the UK’s Climate Change Act 2008. It requires governments to reduce
New Zealand’s emissions year-on-year and plan towards a long-term target: zero net emissions of long-lived greenhouse
gases by 2050 or sooner.
How does it work?
The Zero Carbon Act will require future governments to set a pathway of five year ‘carbon budgets’ on track to the zero
carbon target, and produce clear plans to meet these. It will establish an independent Climate Commission to provide
expert advice on targets and policies and to monitor the Government’s progress.
Will it do anything else?
The Act will also require a National Climate Risk Assessment updated every five years, a climate change adaptation
programme, and transparent planning and reporting on New Zealand’s contributions to climate action in other countries.
For more information see the Zero Carbon Act summary: www.zerocarbonact.nz/zca-summary/
For more FAQs see www.zerocarbonact.nz/faq/
About Generation Zero
Generation Zero is a nationwide, volunteer, youth-led organisation formed in 2011 to progress New Zealand toward a zero
carbon future. www.generationzero.org