NZ’s climate credentials on the line in 2025
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Our government is scheduled to announce its next emissions reduction target under the Paris Agreement by February 10th. However, our current climate policies are no longer a sufficient contribution to the global effort to keep warming at 1.5 °C. The world will be looking closely to see whether we raise the ambition of our emissions reduction targets, or if we will continue to lag behind other countries part of the agreement. Needless to say, our clean and green reputation is on the line.
2025 is set to be a big year on the global climate front. As extreme weather continues to affect populations around the world, countries will be setting new climate goals – or in the case of the United States, pulling out of the Paris Agreement completely! With more climate and nature news to come, it is important to remember that the fight for climate change is also a fight for long-term environmental, social, human and economic sustainability. Under current conditions, actuaries are forecasting a 50 percent reduction in global GDP between 2070 and 2090 from climate shocks. Therefore, we need to keep climate change front of mind when considering the global economy.
However, the world continues to make progress toward a sustainable future in the face of negative forecasts. China’s EV growth has been extraordinary, accounting for more than 60 percent of electric car sales in 2024. Over in Norway, nine out of ten cars sold in 2024 were powered by battery only and the country is looking to be the first in the world to erase petrol and diesel engine cars from the new car market.
Solar uptake in the European Union is also accelerating, overtaking coal generation for the first time in 2024. Gas generation has also declined for the fifth year in a row, signalling the strength of the renewable energy transition. And the people are getting on board! In Germany, solar panels have been installed on 1.5 million balconies, saving up to 30 percent of a typical household’s electricity bill.
In the face of bad news and uncertainty surrounding our own climate goals, remember that the world is changing, and the pace of innovation and the renewable energy transition is only accelerating. So, crank up your speakers and listen to some indigenous and climate-change centric heavy metal. Bring on 2025!
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Here is the full list of articles...
In February 2025, New Zealand’s climate policy will face significant global scrutiny. The government must set a new Paris Agreement emissions target and finalise legislation to repeal the ban on offshore oil and gas exploration. Achieving ambitious emissions reductions is challenging due to reliance on agricultural emissions and limited domestic progress. The repeal could provoke diplomatic backlash, threaten free trade agreements, and jeopardise New Zealand's role in the Beyond Oil and Gas Alliance. Experts warn these decisions may undermine New Zealand’s hard-earned reputation as a climate leader. Read more…
New Zealand’s climate policies are insufficient to limit warming to 1.5°C, according to the Climate Change Commission’s 2050 target review. The commission recommends a net-negative emissions target, a higher methane reduction goal, and inclusion of international aviation and shipping emissions. New Zealand lags behind countries like Finland and Germany with net-negative targets. Current reliance on forestry and outdated targets risks shifting burdens to future generations. The commission emphasises that ambitious reforms, including addressing aviation and shipping emissions, are essential to align with global efforts and meet Paris Agreement goals. Read more…
What else is in store for 2025? Climate and environmental events will shape global efforts to tackle climate change and biodiversity loss. Trump’s second term may hinder U.S. climate leadership, but renewable energy progress continues. Countries must submit stronger climate commitments to limit warming to 1.5°C. Talks on protecting 30% of land and seas by 2030 are key, alongside a possible International Court of Justice ruling on climate accountability. Brazil hosts COP30, focusing on climate finance and Amazon preservation. Extreme weather highlights the urgency of action. Read more…
A report by actuaries warns that global economic growth could decline by 50% over the next 20 years due to climate change impacts. The study highlights the growing financial risks, including extreme weather events and shifting global markets, which could disrupt economies, infrastructure, and supply chains. It stresses the need for urgent policy action to mitigate these risks, advocating for comprehensive climate adaptation strategies to protect long-term economic stability and resilience against environmental disruptions. Read more…
China’s push for electric vehicles (EVs) is reshaping global oil markets, according to a recent CNN report. The country’s rapid adoption of EVs is driving down oil demand, with Chinese EV sales forecasted to surpass 12 million units by 2025. This growth is reducing China’s dependency on oil imports and potentially impacting global oil prices. As China accelerates its transition to clean energy, the shift may pose challenges to traditional oil-exporting countries. Read more…
Norway is set to become the first country where nearly all new cars sold in 2024 will be fully electric. Electric vehicles (EVs) now account for about 80% of car sales in the country, and the government’s ambitious environmental policies, including incentives and tax exemptions, have significantly accelerated EV adoption. As part of efforts to meet climate goals, Norway aims to phase out internal combustion engine vehicles by 2025, cementing its position as a global EV leader. Read more…
Solar generated 11% of EU electricity in 2024, overtaking coal which fell below 10% for the first time. All renewable energy resources contributed to a continued decline in the use of fossil fuels. Analysis found that without new wind and solar capacity added over the last five years, the EU would have imported an additional 92 billion cubic meters of fossil gas and 55 million tonnes of coal, costing $109 billion NZD. Read more…
Balcony solar panels can save 30% on a typical household’s electricity bill and, with vertical surface area in cities larger than roof space, the appeal is clear. Manufacturers say that installing a couple of 300-watt panels will give a saving of up to 30% on a typical household’s electricity bill. With an outlay of €400-800 and with no installation cost, the panels could pay for themselves within six years. Read more…
These Heavy metal bands are taking on colonialism and climate change, through their music. Whether it’s Alien Weaponry in NZ who infuses its music with Te Reo Māori, and explores Māori culture, history, and socio-political themes. To The Hu which incorporates traditional Mongolian instruments and throat singing in a style of music they call Hunnu rock inspired by ancient tribes. They all have a message, backed up by full on heavy metal! Read more…
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