Significantly, Mackle used the term low-emissions economy in saying dairy farmers have a vital role to play in the consultation over the next six weeks on the Zero Carbon Bill.
And Climate Change Minister James Shaw launching the consultation said it will ask people what the emissions target should be, suggesting a zero target is not a foregone conclusion though the consultation document does talk of zero emissions.
It will also ask if all gases that cause climate change should be treated the same or should a different approach to different gases depending on whether they cause short-term or long-term warming be taken?
“The Zero Carbon Bill is about providing stability and predictability by setting out a clear path and a plan to upgrade our economy and help ensure a stable climate for the future.
“Making a plan and taking common sense action now will help avoid sudden changes in the future,” Shaw said.
And the costs of climate change are already increasing with lost agricultural production and clean-up costs after floods.
“The change will be more far-reaching in some (sectors) than others. For that reason we are absolutely committed that this transition will be planned, gradual and carefully phased in.”
A Westpac study said taking early, planned action could save $30 billion by 2050.
Acting now will reduce the potential for sudden, drastic economic shocks, gain an economic advantage as an early mover in emerging market, get the most from wider benefits like cleaner air and water and better health and meet international commitments and encourage other countries to meet theirs.
“Change is not new. Our agriculture sector has responded to constant land use and other change over the past 70 years and as a result we are considered leading edge, globally,” Shaw said.
Stabilising emissions of short-lived gases including methane while pushing for net zero long-lived gases including nitrous oxide is a valid and practical option, he said.
“Keep in mind that since 1990 the amount of methane produced by NZ agricultural livestock has only increased by 4-5% but carbon dioxide from transport has risen by 82%.”
The target options are:
• Net zero carbon dioxide by 2050: This target would reduce net carbon dioxide emissions to zero by 2050 (but not other gases like methane or nitrous oxide, which predominantly come from agriculture).
• Net zero long-lived gases and stabilised short-lived gases by 2050: This target would reduce emissions of long-lived gases (including carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide) to net zero by 2050 while stabilising emissions of short-lived gases (including methane).
• Net zero emissions by 2050: This target would reduce net emissions across all greenhouse gases to zero by 2050.
