Zero Carbon Amendment Bill

26 November 2019

The Climate Change Response (Zero Carbon) Amendment Bill has been passed, which is a significant step forward in the Government's plan to reduce our country's emissions.

The legislation prepares for, and adapts to, the effects of climate change and delivers on the Government's Coalition and Confidence Supply agreements.

Green Party Leader, James Shaw: "This is a historic piece of legislation and is the centrepiece for meaningful climate change action in New Zealand".

The Zero Carbon Act is a key part of the Government's plan to tackle climate change.

Other initiatives include:

• Strengthening Emissions Trading Scheme and inclusion of agriculture in emissions pricing by 2025.
• Planting one billion trees by 2028.
• Stopped issuing any new permits for offshore oil and gas exploration.
• Investing in green hydrogen, biofuels with the goal of 100% renewable electricity generation by 2035.
• Proposals to make electric and cleaner cars more affordable.
• Record investments in public transport and walking and cycling infrastructure.
• Establishment of a $100m Green Investment Fund.

We are closely monitoring what the effect of the Bill will be on business for members.