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The Climate Chap: A truly historic day for every Kiwi

 

 

SteveGreen-607-315Remember what happened on June 9, 2021? In my humble opinion probably the most significant Kiwi event since going nuclear-free in 1987. Yes, our wonderful Climate Change Commission in Wellington released their finalised report on how we are to become ‘carbon neutral’ by 2050, and have now passed the ball to Government for its consideration and progress. It’s an incredibly detailed and yet “hard to put down” 400-page scribe. For your free copy simply download the pdf from climatecommission.govt.nz.

I am not a political animal, and despite my surname I have never advocated for any political party. However, our climate crisis is now political and Jacinda and co have until the end of the year to review this report and decide what actions are needed to initially take us through to the end of 2025. In her own words she says “the transition must happen, but it won't be easy. The commission's advice requires action right across the economy and including all New Zealanders, we are all going to have to play our part. Having a road map doesn't change the fact the road will be steep and it will be tough at times.”

So, as your friendly neighbourhood climate junkie how do I rate the report? Actually, very positive, but with some reservations. What’s in the report? As we have featured in the Mangawhai Focus during 2021 there are tons of actions each of us can take to reduce our harmful emissions and contribute to a better future. Much of the report focusses on eliminating fossil fuels for production of electricity, moving quickly to electric powered vehicles, using less energy at home and work, reducing the massive negative impact of livestock, planting vast amounts of native trees, and capturing emissions from landfills and manufacturing.

My concerns? That we have revised ‘upwards’ the amount of nasty emissions generated in recent years. We are still generating more, not less. Emission saved on international flights and shipping are not included in our national count! We will probably not be able to import sufficient affordable EV vehicles in time. I view the agriculture sector as currently being let off lightly when compared to other manufacturing industries. Policies and programs are not expected to be rolled out until early 2023. Major investments in public transport will focus on the urban communities where 85 per cent of Kiwis live and work. No subsidies for home-based solar power. And finally, where we desperately need every political party to work urgently and in harmony, initial signs are that National and ACT will not be supporting the major recommendations. This may be the norm in Trumpland, but we need consensus here and now!

I prefer to look on the bright side. For just one example, every year over 8 million people die worldwide due to vehicle fumes. This is twice the number who have perished under Covid-19. This should also drastically reduce pollution-based illnesses such an asthma. We should be healthier due to reducing the consumption of meats and dairy. New Zealand will be even cleaner and greener.

When I took up marathon running back in the David Lange era, I asked my coach how best to cover the 42 kilometres. The simple answer: “One step at a time and just keep going.” Overcoming our climate crisis is today’s marathon. Okay, we have until 2050 to finish our race, but it’s time to take your initial steps if you have not already started your climate marathon.

There are literally dozens and dozens of ways that you can reduce your personal emissions, and contribute to our national challenge. Some have already been published in my articles during 2021 and we will continue to introduce opportunities well within your reach in future editions of the Mangawhai Focus. I have absolute confidence in Mangawhai’s ‘team of 5000’ to achieve our goals, live improved lives, and give our children and grandchildren a far better environment and society to thrive in.

Yes you, our community, and our society will change, however to achieve a cleaner, greener, healthier and more sustainable future, no emission reduction is too small or too soon. Inaia tonu nei – the time is now.

n To achieve a cleaner, greener, healthier and more sustainable future, no emission reduction is too small or too soon. All of us have a part to play and a contribution to make. Feedback to theclimatechap@gmail.com

Every year over 8 million people die worldwide due to vehicle fumes.

How do I rate the report? Actually, very positive, but with some reservations.


 
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