A new parliamentary inquiry on climate adaptation has been launched in New Zealand, continuing a cross-party initiative to develop policies for managing the effects of climate change.
The Green Party has voiced its support for the Finance and Expenditure Committee Inquiry, which is led by Climate Change Minister Simon Watts and continues the work previously begun by Hon James Shaw.
The Finance and Expenditure Committee will lead the effort to establish objectives and principles for a nationwide adaptation framework.
Welcoming the cross-party approach to climate resilience, Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick pointed to the severe weather events that impacted the North Island over a year ago, noting how they highlighted the pressing need to prepare for the effects of climate change.
“Just over a year ago our North Island was hammered by deadly and devastating climate change charge weather events. Many are still grappling with the clean-up, insurance issues, and infrastructure gaps. These are the consequences of a warming planet, and we must do everything we can to both mitigate climate changing emissions and adapt. Good policy does both,” she said.
The statement aligns with the Insurance Council of New Zealand’s (ICA) support for improving the understanding of natural hazards, emphasising the importance of proactive measures to safeguard communities.
Swarbrick urged public participation in the inquiry, inviting communities, hapū, and iwi to share their perspectives.
“We encourage everyone and their communities, hapū, and iwi to get involved with the inquiry to have their say,” she said. “Let’s get on with this critical work for people and planet.”
A Notice of Motion passed in Parliament granted the committee authority to conduct the inquiry, which aims to identify a clear direction for New Zealand’s climate adaptation policies.
