Successful first reading a critical step for climate bill

Tuesday, 21 May 2019, 4:32 pm
Press Release: Generation Zero

The Zero Carbon Bill passing its first reading in Parliament today is welcomed by youth climate change campaigners Generation Zero. They are now advocating for continued cross-party support for the Bill and are calling on all young people in Aotearoa to join them in the public submission process during June and July.

“Youth in Aotearoa continue to make their voices loud and clear that they want more effective action to address climate change, and they will be a formidable force as the Zero Carbon Bill proceeds to the submissions process,” says Lisa McLaren, Zero Carbon Act national campaign convener. “We encourage young people across the country to make their voice heard during the crucial next two months”.

Generation Zero are running a campaign called ‘Elbow Your Elders (for climate action!)’ in collaboration with the School Strike 4 Climate group during the upcoming select committee submissions process.

“We need young people to be leading conversations about climate change in their homes and communities. They need to be talking to their family and friends about why a stronger law is needed.”

“Climate change is the greatest threat to current and future generations. However, it’s also an opportunity for us to re-think the relationship between nature, community, and the economy, and to forge a future which is safe, just & thriving. Having these discussions at home around why we want to make the draft law stronger is critical. We need to think about what we want our 2050 future to look like, and then plan backwards to make it a reality.”

Generation Zero recognises that in its current form the Bill is sub-par. As such they are wanting further amendments to the bill to be considered to ensure that the bill is strong and able to provide a healthy environment and planet for all.

“Our obligations to keep warming under 1.5°C need to be strengthened within this Bill. If the Government is serious about staying below 1.5°C, then New Zealand needs to effectively halve its carbon emissions by 2030. We need a bill that includes a legally binding 2050 target that supports domestic emissions reductions, honours Te Tiriti o Waitangi through a meaningful partnership with iwi/hapu, and ensures a just transition for frontline communities and workers in emission-intensive industries.”

“We and all youth in Aotearoa will be watching to see whether we are provided with a bill that secures our future or continues the status quo. With the school strike this coming week, the power of youth in determining a just future for all is not to be underestimated as the Zero Carbon Bill proceeds through parliament”.

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