Environment

March 2009 - Emissions Trading Scheme Review

The Committee has made comments on the Emissions Trading Scheme Review. The overall impression recorded from members was that this was an attempt to procrastinate on the issue of reducing emissions.

The commitment of $900 million additional investment in Public Transport was welcomed, but the resumption of exploration for gas and oil in Taranaki was questioned. The adoption of small scale local ethanol production was recommended, as well as the adoption of organic farming. The expansion of roading was also questioned.

It was suggested that carbon sequestration in soil, particularly organic soil, be examined. It was suggested by members that the reduction of 60% below 2000 levels by 2050, and a top Greenhouse Gas emission figure of 450 ppm, was not satisfactory. Members felt that New Zealand and Australia should at least match the aim of the USA for a reduction of 80% by 2050. Members suggested that Government policy and funding be directed to constructing an alternative energy base, and environmentally sound farming and business communities. Without a sustainable environment, we will not have an economy.