Government and climate change

Ag Matters explains the steps the Government is taking to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change. It covers New Zealand's commitments under the Paris Agreement, aiming to cut emissions by 50% below 2005 levels by 2030. The Climate Change Response (Zero Carbon) Amendment Act 2019 sets targets for carbon dioxide and methane, with the goal of reaching net zero emissions by 2050.

The Emissions Trading Scheme puts a price on emissions but currently excludes agriculture. A new farm-level pricing system for agricultural emissions will start in 2025, ensuring farmers can manage their impacts on the environment. 

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