February 04, 2021
Maori key to climate action
The Māori Climate Commissioner is calling on the Climate Change Commission to be bolder in its approach and to work more closely with Māori.
Donna Awatere Huata says that’s what’s needed to achieve meaningful, inclusive and more ambitious domestic change.
The commission’s first draft budgets released this week for consultation include calls for steep reductions in the import of petrol and diesel vehicles over the next decade, more planting of forests and the phasing out of the use of natural gas in things like household appliances.
Ms Awatere Huata says the commission needs to hold the line against the big business and farming lobbies which may push back against the budgets, and put the needs of all New Zealanders above those of industry.
She says next to government, Māori have the most to contribute in terms of strategies and resources to reduce and offset emissions because of their significant interests in areas such as geothermal power, carbon farming, and land use.
She says to date the commission’s engagement with Māori has been limited.
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