Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone
The government has announced new "science-based" methane targets for 2050, which it says will provide exporters with a clear pathway to reduce emissions, while maintaining productivity and trade competitiveness.
The target would be set at a range of 14-24 percent below 2017 levels by 2050, reflecting the findings of the independent Methane Science Review released in 2024, it said on Sunday.
The new target is well below the previous legislation, which aimed for a 24-47 percent reduction.
Agriculture and Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay said the government had worked closely with industry and accepted a range of advice to determine a "practical target".
"Today, we're delivering a practical, fair pathway that recognises New Zealand agriculture efficiency, protects jobs and production, and upholds our climate commitments," he said.
The Climate Change Commission (CCC) - the independent body tasked with advising the government on emissions - previously said the target set by the 2024 review was not high enough.
The CCC instead recommended even greater methane reductions of 35-47 percent by 205
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