Timeline of New Zealand Climate Change Policy
New Zealand has a rich history of climate change policy development, reflecting its commitment to addressing global environmental challenges. This timeline outlines key milestones in New Zealand’s climate change policy from the late 20th century to the present day, showcasing the nation’s evolving approach to mitigating and adapting to climate change.
1980s: The Early Years
1988: The New Zealand Government begins addressing climate change issues, coinciding with the formation of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
1989: The Royal Society releases the New Zealand Climate Report 1990, commissioned by the government, marking one of the first significant steps in understanding and addressing climate change in the country.
1990s: Initial Policy Frameworks and International Engagement
1994: The Fourth National Government introduces several climate policies, including targets to reduce net emissions to 1990 levels by 2020 and slow the growth of gross emissions by 20%. This period also sees the establishment of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) and initial discussions on voluntary agreements with industries to reduce emissions.
1996: The emissions target is revised to ensure no increase in net emissions of carbon dioxide from 1990 levels by the year 2000, but the proposed carbon charge is put on hold pending international negotiations.
1997: New Zealand signs the Kyoto Protocol, committing to international efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
2000s: Legislative Foundations and Emissions Trading
2002: The Labour Government passes the Climate Change Response Act, designed to meet New Zealand’s obligations under the Kyoto Protocol. The Act introduces mechanisms for recording emissions and sets the stage for future climate policies.
2005: Plans for a carbon tax are abandoned due to opposition from coalition partners United Future and New Zealand First.
2008: Labour creates the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme (NZ ETS) by passing the Climate Change Response (Emissions Trading) Amendment Act. This scheme is intended to be a key tool in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
2010s: Strengthening Commitments and New Legislation
2009: The National Government amends the NZ ETS, introducing a transition period and a 2-for-1 emissions unit surrender arrangement to mitigate the impact on businesses during the Global Financial Crisis.
2016: Climate Change Minister Paula Bennett announces the removal of the 2-for-1 subsidy, stating that the ETS needs to be more effective in reducing emissions.
2019: The Climate Change Response (Zero Carbon) Amendment Act is introduced, setting legally binding targets to reduce net carbon emissions to zero by 2050 and establishing the Climate Change Commission to advise the government on emissions budgets and policies.
2020s: Climate Emergency and Comprehensive Plans
2020: Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern declares a climate change emergency and commits to a carbon-neutral government by 2025. This declaration underscores the urgent need for action and sets ambitious targets for the public sector.
2021: The Climate Change Commission provides comprehensive advice to the government on meeting its climate targets. This advice leads to the development of the first Emissions Reduction Plan (ERP), which outlines strategies to meet emissions budgets and long-term goals.
2022: The government releases its first Emissions Reduction Plan, detailing how New Zealand will achieve its emissions reduction targets over the coming years. The plan includes measures across various sectors, including energy, transport, and agriculture.
2022: The He Waka Eke Noa partnership, a collaboration between the government and the agricultural sector, releases its proposed plan for reducing agricultural emissions, highlighting the importance of addressing emissions from this critical sector.
New Zealand’s climate change policy has evolved significantly over the past few decades, reflecting both domestic priorities and international commitments. From early reports and voluntary agreements to comprehensive legislation and ambitious emissions reduction plans, New Zealand continues to strive towards a sustainable and resilient future. The country’s ongoing efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change demonstrate a robust commitment to protecting the environment for future generations.