New Zealand Commits to 51-55% Emission Cuts by 2035

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- New Climate Goal: New Zealand commits to cutting emissions by 51-55% below 2005 levels by 2035 under the Paris Agreement.
- Aligning Commitments: The new target brings domestic and international climate goals in sync, focusing on high-impact actions.
- Economic Growth & Innovation: Policies will drive clean energy, emissions reduction in agriculture, and innovation in low-emission tech to boost investment and productivity.
New Zealand has announced its second international climate target, aiming for a 51-55% reduction in emissions from 2005 levels by 2035, Climate Change Minister Simon Watts confirmed today.
“We have worked hard to set a target that is both ambitious and achievable, reinforcing our commitment to the Paris Agreement and global climate action,” Watts said.

The government aims to align international and domestic climate commitments, ensuring efforts contribute effectively toward the net zero 2050 target.
“This target also brings our international and domestic climate change commitments into line, so we can focus our efforts on the actions that will make the biggest difference towards reaching our net zero 2050 target.”
New Zealand’s climate strategy includes:
- Strengthening the Emissions Trading Scheme to drive meaningful reductions.
- Investing in innovative technologies to cut agricultural emissions.
- Accelerating electrification to ensure a cleaner, more productive economy.
Related Article: New Zealand Halves Emission Credits to Strengthen ETS Market and Achieve Climate Goals
“We are already laying the foundation for meaningful emissions reductions, with the potential to meet our net zero target as early as 2044,” Watts said. “This will mean greater innovation originating here in New Zealand to advance low-emission technologies that grow our economy.”
The Paris Agreement, the global treaty aiming to cap warming at 1.5°C, requires nations to set and achieve Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
“New Zealand is committed to achieving its first and second Nationally Determined Contributions and is serious about playing our part to reduce the impact of climate change,” Watts emphasized.
With an emphasis on clean energy, economic resilience, and emissions reduction, the government positions New Zealand as a leader in climate action and green investment.
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