Politics and carbon - controversy continues to provoke policy response

Authors: Kit Richards
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 2022, Issue N.Z.J.For. 67(2) 2022, pp 19–22, Aug 2022
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

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Abstract: Adjustments to remove permanent exotic forests from eligibility in the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) are of concern. Driven by fears about a ‘pine invasion’, some of them could have some basis in truth if not managed. The New Zealand Institute of Forestry (NZIF) has taken the position that some added controls on exotic permanent forests are warranted, but there are opportunities and benefits that should not be missed. Flexibility is important and adjustments to the ETS, plus a National Environmental Standard - Carbon Forestry (NES-CF) for permanent forests separate to the National Environmental Standard - Plantation Forestry (NES-PF), is thought to be a better way forward. To meet greenhouse gas (GHG) commitments, New Zealand will need more trees and those trees will need to be on farmland.

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