Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) has welcomed the Productivity Commission’s low emissions economy draft report, saying it is another step towards greater action on climate change.
On April 27, the Productivity Commission released its recommendations on how New Zealand can move to a low-emissions future. It identified options on how to reduce domestic greenhouse gas emissions, while at the same time continuing to grow incomes and well-being.
The idea involves replacing fossil-fuels, where feasible, with clean electricity (e.g., electric vehicles and lower grade process heat) together with substantial land use change in favour of large-scale new forestry plantation and a significant growth in horticulture.
LGNZ President Dave Cull says the draft report reflects LGNZ’s stance in its local government position statement on climate change, and the Local Government Leaders’ Climate Change Declaration 2017.
“Climate change has been identified by the local government as one of the highest priorities for the sector, with councils to play important roles in mitigating and particularly adapting to climate change impacts,” LGNZ President Dave Cull said. “However, we are going to need a joint approach between central and local government, industry and communities if we are to begin to see results on climate change, whether in reducing emissions or adapting for its impacts.”
LGNZ said it seeks to establish clear guidelines on climate change responsibilities, for government at all levels, the private sector and individuals, including where the costs of adapting to climate change will fall.
“Local government is ready to do its part and we welcome the opportunity to provide a submission on what is needed to aid New Zealand’s transition to a low emissions economy,” Cull added.
