New Zealand is topping the Fossil leader board this year and seems determined to stretch its lead. Initially copping an onslaught of condemnation for not re-committing under Kyoto, they are adding insult to injury by continuing to advocate for access to flexible mechanisms for non-legally bound countries, while offering no carrot in return. Their self-centred approach to these negotiations reflects a distinct lack of willingness to participate responsibly.
Increased access to markets is probably a good thing – no one wants to see the CDM collapse entirely – however New Zealand must demonstrate in Doha that it is prepared to pull its weight pre-2020. New Zealand should announce a target of at least 25% below 1990 emissions levels and send a strong signal that they are prepared to make real progress. Yes, these are above the conditional range of your present targets, Minister, but that’s what ambition is. A pledge to significantly scale up finance next year would also serve to restore previously eroded trust, and advance crucial progress on scaling up desperately needed climate funds.
Four fossils in five days give New Zealand a pretty decent hit rate on the fossil ladder. So resigned to inadequacy, the New Zealand Climate Change Minister Tim Groser has started referring to “Fossil” awards as a certainty. Here’s the thing, Mr. Groser – they needn’t be. Come to the party with ambitious targets and offers of bold and broad finance, and you’ll be surprised at how few Fossil awards you receive. Failure and disappointment needn’t be so prevalent, and New Zealand can help to change that.