New Zealand falls seven places in climate ranking.
National Government's climate policy has been heavily criticized after New Zealand fell seven places to 41st out of 63 countries measured on the Climate Change Performance Index.
The index, released at COP29 in Azerbaijan, rates New Zealand as having a "low" performance. Labour climate spokesperson Megan Woods accused National of failing to meet the climate challenge and taking steps backward with policies such as scrapping the oil and gas exploration ban and clean car discount. Climate Minister Simon Watts' reliance on unproven technology and an incomplete Emissions Trading Scheme has also been questioned.
The Climate Change Commission has sounded the alarm over the Government's policies, warning that New Zealand is off track to meet its climate goals. The country's reputation as a clean and sustainable nation is at risk due to failing to meet its targets, which are crucial for trade agreements and relationships with Pacific neighbors. Woods urged National to take stronger action on climate change and listen to climate experts.
The ranking downgrade has put pressure on the Government to reassess its climate policies and take more effective measures to address New Zealand's carbon emissions.