We are a new independent Crown entity set up to provide expert, evidence-based advice to successive governments to help Aotearoa transition to a thriving, climate-resilient and low-emissions future.
We were established by an amendment to the Climate Change Response Act 2002 (the Act) called the Climate Change Response (Zero Carbon) Amendment Act 2019 (the Zero Carbon Act).
Our advice helps decision makers drive climate action in Aotearoa and our independence means we can provide impartial advice, challenge and hold the government of the day to account for action on climate change.
Our work is not all things climate change – our role is focused. More information about the Commission and our work can be found in our Statement of Intent.
Climate change is already happening, and past emissions have locked in further change. The pace and scale at which we will need to adapt to this change will largely be driven by these past emissions, and the world’s ability to reduce future emissions and meet the Paris Agreement goal.
How we respond to the changes required of us can reduce the size of the burden we need to mitigate. The more we reduce our emissions, the less of an adaptation burden there will be to pay for.
Our advice sets out how the Government can achieve the deliverables and timeframes set out in the Zero Carbon Act.
Our first package of advice is due to Government by 31 May 2021. It will include Aotearoa’s first three emissions budgets and guidance on the Government’s first emissions reduction plan.
On 1 February 2021, we will publicly release a draft of our advice package for consultation, with the submission period open until 14 March 2021.