Phasing out fossil fuels in process heat

Overview

Climate change is a global problem that is having significant impacts on the environment, people and economies across the world. To limit the most harmful impacts of climate change, all countries need to contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

New Zealand is committed to supporting a just transition to a low-emissions economy.

Under the Climate Change Response (Zero Carbon) Amendment Act 2019, the Government has set a 2050 target of net zero GHG emissions (other than biogenic methane) and a framework to guide domestic climate actions as they transition into a low-emissions economy.

Currently under the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA), regional councils are prevented from considering the effects of greenhouse gas emissions on climate change when making air discharge rules and considering applications for air discharge permits.

These barriers will be removed on 31 December 2021 following changes to the RMA. The changes will allow local authorities to consider the effects of GHG emission on climate change in RMA decision-making, and to “have regard to” emission reduction plans and national adaptation plans  when preparing RMA plans and policy statements.

Read our proposal on phasing out fossil fuels in process heat (PDF 2.6MB)