Climate Change Scientists Call Out Government for Overlooking Critical Scientific Evidence

Climate change scientists have written an open letter to Christopher Luxon warning that New Zealand government plans to introduce new agriculture methane targets will jeopardise existing agreements.
Photo: RNZ / Marika Khabazi

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has stirred controversy lately by dismissing international climate scientists’ concerns about New Zealand’s methane emissions. He called these scientists "worthies," suggesting they should focus their efforts elsewhere. This remark came after a group of 26 scientists criticized the government for ignoring science in its methane reduction plans.

New Zealand has one of the highest methane emissions per capita, mainly due to its agriculture. Currently, the target is to cut methane emissions by 24 to 47 percent by 2050. Farming groups, however, are pushing for lower targets and want to avoid any pricing on methane emissions.

Historically, carbon dioxide emissions have been priced in New Zealand since 2008, but experts warn that methane reduction is just as crucial. This is because methane is a short-lived gas that has a significant immediate impact on global warming.

The government recently set up its own panel to determine acceptable reduction levels for methane, and their suggestion was a 14-24 percent cut by 2050. Critics argue that allowing such minimal cuts would mean maintaining high methane levels indefinitely, which is unsustainable.

A letter from climate scientists highlighted the dangers of New Zealand’s current approach, stating that it risks undermining both the country’s climate commitments and the Global Methane Pledge. The scientists argued that we need more aggressive reductions to control global warming.

Paul Behrens, a professor at Oxford University, described the government’s focus on "no additional warming" as dangerously simplistic. He pointed out that clinging to the status quo ignores the severe climate consequences affecting countries worldwide.

The Green Party’s Chloe Swarbrick has also called out Luxon for this stance, urging him to clarify the government’s intentions. She emphasized that the delays in making decisions are worrying farmers and businesses alike.

Climate Change Minister Simon Watts is still reviewing the methane target, stating that he values the expertise of the scientists involved but faced scrutiny from scientists who claim the government is avoiding necessary action.

Research estimated that to meet global climate goals, methane emissions would need to be reduced by about 60 percent by 2050. However, group interests like Federated Farmers are resistant, highlighting the tensions between agricultural demands and climate action.

As the world continues to confront climate challenges, New Zealand’s decisions will not only impact its future but also set a precedent for other nations. Addressing these methane emissions is a critical part of the broader effort to slow global warming and ensure sustainable agricultural practices.

For more information, you can check this report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

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