THE TRANSITION TO A LOW-EMISSION ECONOMY

摘要

The previous National-led New Zealand Government committed, under the Paris Accord, to reduce New Zealand's total greenhouse gas emissions to 30% below 2005 levels by 2030, and to 50% below 1990 levels by 2050. Included in the Paris Agreement was a commitment that members should aim to reach net zero emissions by the second half of the 21st Century. The incoming Minister for Climate Change, Hon James Shaw, has indicated an intention to pursue a more ambitious target, in particular by aiming to reach net zero emissions by 2050. The Productivity Commission was tasked with advising on how New Zealand can make this transition to a low emissions economy in a way that minimises risks and maximises opportunities. The high-level messages are simple enough. To meet these targets, we need to stop burning fossil fuels, and instead take our energy from clean or near clean electricity - with a place also for biofuels, hydrogen or other renewable energy sources. That deals with around half of the NZ challenge. The other half involves agriculture and other forms of land use, including forestry. This presentation will cover the analysis and key findings of this inquiry.