This week, New Zealand’s government made headlines by rejecting the Climate Change Commission’s recommendations on emission targets. This choice signifies a troubling trend in the country’s climate policy. It raises three critical questions:
- Is New Zealand at risk of breaking international climate laws? Yes.
- Could other countries take legal action against New Zealand for climate inaction? Yes.
- Does this undermine New Zealand’s commitment to international agreements? Yes.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued a significant advisory opinion in July, clarifying the responsibilities of states in tackling climate change. Though not legally binding, the ruling made it clear that states must comply with international laws and obligations, including New Zealand.
In addition to dismissing the Commission’s recommendations, New Zealand’s government has also:
- Reversed a ban on offshore oil and gas exploration.
- Lowered methane emission targets, resulting in a “Fossil of the Day” award at COP30 last November.
- Set a modest emissions reduction target of 51-55% from 2005 levels by 2035, up from the previous goal of 50% by 2030.
- Removed the requirement for the Emissions Trading Scheme to align with commitments under the Paris Agreement.
These moves seem at odds with the ICJ’s five key findings:
- New Zealand must work to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, surpassing the earlier 2°C goal.
- The country’s emission targets, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), must be ambitious and scientifically informed.
- Domestic measures to meet NDC targets can be evaluated independently, focusing on both production and consumption activities.
- New Zealand has climate obligations across various legal frameworks, including human rights and biodiversity laws.
- Any state can take legal action if New Zealand fails to meet its climate obligations.
Ignoring these responsibilities could lead to legal trouble and strain New Zealand’s reputation. Countries, particularly vulnerable island nations in the Pacific, could hold New Zealand accountable. In a recent social media discussion, many users expressed concern over how the government’s decisions reflect a lack of commitment to addressing climate change.
The situation is reminiscent of other climates crises throughout history, where nations faced backlash for failing to act. In the 1990s, the Kyoto Protocol aimed to address climate issues, yet many countries struggled to meet their commitments. Today’s challenges underscore how vital it is for small nations to uphold international agreements.
New Zealand must take its obligations seriously. Supporting the international climate framework is not just about compliance; it’s about ethical leadership in a world facing climate emergencies. Real change comes from acknowledging the stakes and taking bold action.
This story originally appeared in The Conversation.
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