There are alternatives to the Kyoto Protocol

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There are alternatives to the Kyoto Protocol  

The Kyoto Protocol is not the only game in town, says Business NZ.

Chief Executive Simon Carlaw says there are better options for New Zealand to play its part in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

“Instead of ratifying the Kyoto Protocol we should consider the actions of the US, Canada and Australia who have joined partnerships outside the Protocol, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” Mr Carlaw said.

Releasing Business NZ’s position statement on the Kyoto Protocol (see Business NZ and the Kyoto Protocol), Mr Carlaw said there were also a number of initiatives NZ could undertake without recourse to either the Protocol or any other partnership.

“ Better depreciation rules to encourage rapid replacement of equipment that’s less energy efficient; reform of the Resource Management Act to get rid of barriers to the building of new environmentally friendly hydro and wind generators; upgraded electricity transmission plant – all these would substantially reduce our greenhouse gas emissions, without having to be part of the Kyoto Protocol.

 “The US, Canada and Australia, by setting up alternative partnerships to combat climate change, have demonstrated that the Protocol is not the only avenue for consideration.  Their actions have been prompted by concerns that the Protocol will make them less competitive internationally.   This is a valid concern, one that the NZ business community would like the NZ Government to take on board.”