Independent Review of Methane Science and Targets Launched

“The Government is committed to fulfilling our climate change obligations without jeopardizing New Zealand farms. We must ensure our targets are equitable and sustainable,” Mr. McClay asserted.

Climate Change Minister Simon Watts and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay have announced the commencement of an independent review aimed at establishing methane science and targets consistent with achieving no additional warming from agriculture emissions.

"An independent panel announced today will report back to the Government by the end of the year, providing evidence-based advice on what our biogenic methane target should be to ensure no additional warming," Mr. Watts stated.

The panel, chaired by Nicola Shadbolt—a former climate change commissioner, respected farmer, academic, and experienced director—has been approved by Cabinet. Its members include highly-regarded climate and atmospheric scientists with extensive domestic and international expertise in climate change and biogenic methane.

Mr. McClay emphasized the panel's role in complementing the Climate Change Commission's ongoing review of 2050 targets, which is expected to influence the Government's response to the Commission's advice in 2025.

"The Government is committed to fulfilling our climate change obligations without jeopardizing New Zealand farms. We must ensure our targets are equitable and sustainable," Mr. McClay asserted.

He highlighted New Zealand farmers as among the world's most efficient food producers in terms of carbon emissions, stressing the importance of maintaining local production rather than shifting it overseas to less carbon-efficient countries.

"To prevent a decline in our agricultural output due to emission reduction efforts, the Government is investing over $400 million over the next four years," Mr. McClay continued.

This investment aims to accelerate the development and deployment of tools and technologies for on-farm emission reductions, including an additional $50.5 million over five years to expand investment in the New Zealand Agricultural Greenhouse Gas Research Centre.

"The upcoming consultation on the second emissions reduction plan will also address detailed strategies to assist the sector in reducing agricultural emissions," Mr. McClay added.

He underscored the crucial role of a robust agricultural sector in supporting New Zealand's economy sustainably as the country works towards achieving its climate change goals.

The independent review and subsequent actions are integral to ensuring New Zealand meets its international climate commitments while supporting its vital agricultural sector.