Young Kiwis Rally for Climate Action as Government Unveils New Methane Targets

More than 15 young people from across New Zealand gathered recently to send a message to the government. They hope it will get to the COP30 (Conference of the Parties) in Brazil soon.

During a national youth-led climate simulation, they created the 2025 Aotearoa Youth COP Statement. This statement was presented to Dr. Claire Achmad, the Children’s Commissioner. It includes recommendations from the youth on five important areas: loss and damage, sustainable food systems, water, sanitation and hygiene, youth participation, and governance.

In a chat on Pacific Mornings, young ambassadors Kereama and Mazaiah shared their thoughts. Kereama highlighted the need to make future water systems climate-resilient and based on indigenous knowledge. Mazaiah talked about the impact of loss and damage on Pacific nations, including the loss of cultural land and knowledge in places like Tuvalu. “Even though I may not be from Tuvalu, I believe our Pacific nations are deeply connected,” she said.

This week, New Zealand is hosting its largest climate change conference in Christchurch, aiming to spotlight a Pacific-led agenda. The International Adaptation Futures Conference will attract over 2,000 delegates globally, including many from the Pacific. Notable attendees will include Tuvalu’s Climate Change Minister, Maina Talia.

Kereama expressed doubts about New Zealand’s readiness to host this conference, citing recent government backpedaling on gas and oil exploration. “We rely heavily on vague promises instead of real change,” he mentioned.

Recently, the New Zealand government announced methane reduction targets for 2050, aiming to cut emissions by 14% to 24% from 2017 levels. Agriculture is a major part of New Zealand’s economy, contributing $57 billion in exports annually and employing 13.1% of the workforce. However, it also produces significant methane emissions, which trap much more heat than carbon dioxide.

Labour’s climate spokesperson, Deborah Russell, criticized these new targets, calling them detrimental to New Zealand’s exporters. Kereama urged the government to see climate action as a critical issue, not just a political one. “Listen to us young people and act boldly for our planet,” he insisted. He added, “This is about survival and hope for our future.”

This passionate call from young New Zealanders underscores the urgency of addressing climate change and the need for meaningful action from leaders. As they prepare for COP30, their voices may shape the future of climate policy and advocacy.

For a deeper understanding of climate change impacts, check the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports.

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