Methane targets disappoint New Zealand producers
The Government passed the bill which has set a target of almost zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 which has been largely welcomed. However Beef + Lamb New Zealand opposes the methane reduction range of 24-47%, as it claims it is higher than the Government’s own science and policy advice and places undue pressure on producers.
“We support many elements of the Zero Carbon Bill, however we remain unhappy with the 24-47% methane target range as this is based on an international report that clearly stated it should not be used on an individual country basis,” said Sam McIvor, chief executive of Beef + Lamb New Zealand. “This range will mean that methane will be used to ‘cool’ the planet while other gases are just being asked to provide no additional warming – that’s not fair or equitable.”
McIvor said the meat industry was willing to do its part to reduce emissions but called for a level playing field.
“We are absolutely committed to playing our role to address climate change. We have reduced our absolute emissions by 30% since 1990. We have signed up to He Waka Eke Noa through which we will continue this progress through establishing a farm-level approach to addressing our agricultural emissions and ensuring farmers get credit for the sequestration happening on their farms.
“We welcome Minister James Shaw’s indications in the house that as part of the legislation, the Independent Climate Change Commission has the power to review the range as part of its process. Beef + Lamb New Zealand will continue to press for this to happen as soon as possible.”
