We are pleased to share with you our new podcast, Sustainable Impact - new series exploring the conversations and developments in sustainability that are shaping Aotearoa New Zealand's future. In our first episode, partners Holly Hill and Stephanie de Groot host Minister Simon Watts, the Minister of Climate Change. They discuss the Government's climate strategy, the challenges and opportunities in achieving New Zealand's climate goals, and the importance of collaboration between the government and the private sector. The episode provides insights into the implementation of the climate strategy, cross-party support, and the role of renewable energy in New Zealand's future.
[00:00:34] Stephanie asks Minister Watts about the five-point climate strategy unveiled in July last year. Minister Watts outlines the strategy's components and discusses the implementation plan and specific timeframes.
[00:02:18] Minister Watts talks about the comprehensive emissions reduction plan published before Christmas, highlighting the multi-sector approach and the progress already underway in increasing renewable energy capacity.
[00:03:09] Holly asks about the Government's plans for working with the private sector on climate initiatives. Minister Watts emphasizes the importance of collaboration and provides an example involving Genesis and biomass production at Huntly.
[00:04:36] Stephanie asks about the challenges of balancing climate ambitions with economic growth. Minister Watts explains how investment in renewables can drive economic growth and reduce emissions simultaneously.
[00:06:31] Minister Watts discusses the potential of offshore renewable energy in New Zealand and the government's role in removing regulatory barriers to facilitate industry investment.
[00:08:19] Stephanie asks about achieving cross-party support for climate initiatives. Minister Watts highlights the importance of enduring frameworks and bipartisan efforts, particularly in climate adaptation.
[00:10:45] Holly raises the topic of New Zealand's commitment to the Paris Agreement. Minister Watts reaffirms the government's commitment and discusses the targets and progress outlined in the emissions reduction plan.
[00:12:26] Stephanie asks which sectors might face the greatest challenges under the emissions reduction plan and whether the government will provide additional support. Minister Watts acknowledges the challenges across all sectors and emphasizes the need for increased renewable energy generation.
[00:14:43] Holly brings up the recent review of methane targets. Minister Watts explains the steps being taken following the report's release and the importance of providing certainty to the agricultural sector.
[00:16:32] Stephanie highlights the climate adaptation framework addressing extreme weather events. Minister Watts outlines the framework's four key components and the government's commitment to legislative action.
[00:19:49] Holly asks about the status of the carbon neutral government programme. Minister Watts confirms that the programme is proceeding and discusses the importance of delivering outcomes and reducing government expenditure on energy.
Information in this episode is accurate as at the date of recording, 14 February 2025.
Please contact Holly Hill or Stephanie de Groot or our Real Estate and Environment team if you need legal advice and guidance on any of the topics discussed in the episode.
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