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The place for NZ oriented news releases on climate change and related energy policy.
Making money out of hot air
A collaborative agricultural research effort launched this week aims to increase animal productivity while lowering New Zealand's greenhouse gas emissions.
The Pastoral Greenhouse Gas Research Consortium, a combined industry and Government initiative seeks to discover innovative ways to reduce methane production from sheep, cattle and deer.
'Reducing an animal's methane output should mean more useful energy and nutrients are available for meat or milk production' says consortium chairman Mark Leslie 'while at the same time New Zealand's overall greenhouse gas emissions will be lowered'."
A collaborative agricultural research effort launched this week aims to increase animal productivity while lowering New Zealand's greenhouse gas emissions.
The Pastoral Greenhouse Gas Research Consortium, a combined industry and Government initiative seeks to discover innovative ways to reduce methane production from sheep, cattle and deer.
'Reducing an animal's methane output should mean more useful energy and nutrients are available for meat or milk production' says consortium chairman Mark Leslie 'while at the same time New Zealand's overall greenhouse gas emissions will be lowered'."
Ice surprise prompts study cash
NZ warming study funded:
During ice ages, glaciers advanced and carved out valleys, depositing rocky debris where they finally come to rest. Much of the debris was washed out to sea.
But in warm periods, such as the present, the glaciers retreated and lakes formed behind the piles of debris that marked the furthest extent of the ice-age glaciers.
Most of the material being eroded off the Alps is now trapped in lakes such as Pukaki, Hawea and Wanaka.
Professor Hendy said more evidence was available in a core taken 300km west of New Zealand by a French research ship five years ago. But this country could not afford to buy the core, and it was being held in Germany.
When he heard that Mr Comer wanted to fund climate change research, he sent him a proposal to study the core. 'He accepted.'
A post-doctoral fellow at Waikato, Dr Penny Cooke, 38, will go to Germany next month to collect about a teaspoon-full of material at 2cm intervals in the 35m core, a total of about 2kg.
'It's amazing what you can get out of 2kg,' she said. "
NZ warming study funded:
During ice ages, glaciers advanced and carved out valleys, depositing rocky debris where they finally come to rest. Much of the debris was washed out to sea.
But in warm periods, such as the present, the glaciers retreated and lakes formed behind the piles of debris that marked the furthest extent of the ice-age glaciers.
Most of the material being eroded off the Alps is now trapped in lakes such as Pukaki, Hawea and Wanaka.
Professor Hendy said more evidence was available in a core taken 300km west of New Zealand by a French research ship five years ago. But this country could not afford to buy the core, and it was being held in Germany.
When he heard that Mr Comer wanted to fund climate change research, he sent him a proposal to study the core. 'He accepted.'
A post-doctoral fellow at Waikato, Dr Penny Cooke, 38, will go to Germany next month to collect about a teaspoon-full of material at 2cm intervals in the 35m core, a total of about 2kg.
'It's amazing what you can get out of 2kg,' she said. "
Timber future negotiaition involves Kyoto
A key element is coming to a head. The industry and government are negotiating a Forest Industry Framework Agreement on climate change to recognise the economic value forests have in helping New Zealand meet Kyoto Protocol commitments. This framework would establish mechanisms for channelling some value back to the industry."
A key element is coming to a head. The industry and government are negotiating a Forest Industry Framework Agreement on climate change to recognise the economic value forests have in helping New Zealand meet Kyoto Protocol commitments. This framework would establish mechanisms for channelling some value back to the industry."
Shell smells gas import cash
Plans are under way to prepare for the end of New Zealand's natural gas self-sufficiency and build a liquid natural gas import industry worth hundreds of millions of dollars annually to importers.
Shell is scouting out North Island sites where huge ships - some with distinctive orange, bulbous on-deck tanks - can dock with loads of cooled, highly-compressed gas. "
Plans are under way to prepare for the end of New Zealand's natural gas self-sufficiency and build a liquid natural gas import industry worth hundreds of millions of dollars annually to importers.
Shell is scouting out North Island sites where huge ships - some with distinctive orange, bulbous on-deck tanks - can dock with loads of cooled, highly-compressed gas. "
Flatulence tax row went on too long
With all the hot air being emitted by those on both sides of the flatulence tax debate, it looked for a while as if finding a compromise was as likely as French farmers suddenly calling for an end to trade barriers.
But when the first hint of a solution to this whole debacle emerged last week it was anything but a miracle.
The only really remarkable thing about the Government's decision - to listen to the industry scientists already doing research into methane emissions - is that it took so long to reach. "
With all the hot air being emitted by those on both sides of the flatulence tax debate, it looked for a while as if finding a compromise was as likely as French farmers suddenly calling for an end to trade barriers.
But when the first hint of a solution to this whole debacle emerged last week it was anything but a miracle.
The only really remarkable thing about the Government's decision - to listen to the industry scientists already doing research into methane emissions - is that it took so long to reach. "
EDS submission to the PCE on Electricity, Energy and the Environment
EDS believes the primary focus of assessing the environmental performance of the sector has to be on the behaviour of the EGO. It is the EGO that is likely to be most responsive to initiatives of the PCE.
We would like to see particular emphasis on lowering barriers to market participation by consumers and new renewables producers.
To be effective the PCE must be able to assess the market rules and interventions made by the EGO for their environmental effect. Market analytical
capacity needs to be retained.
While environmental performance measures are important they are often after the event and any ability to influence decisions based only on monitoring will be a diminished one.
EDS believes the primary focus of assessing the environmental performance of the sector has to be on the behaviour of the EGO. It is the EGO that is likely to be most responsive to initiatives of the PCE.
We would like to see particular emphasis on lowering barriers to market participation by consumers and new renewables producers.
To be effective the PCE must be able to assess the market rules and interventions made by the EGO for their environmental effect. Market analytical
capacity needs to be retained.
While environmental performance measures are important they are often after the event and any ability to influence decisions based only on monitoring will be a diminished one.
Ice cap meltdown warning
A New Zealand scientist who has discovered a gaping crack in an Arctic ice shelf believes that the whole northern ice cap could melt within 70 years.
Dr Warwick Vincent, an Auckland-born expert on lakes who is now a professor at Laval University in Quebec City, Canada, has been overwhelmed by media calls since he announced on Tuesday that the Ward Hunt ice shelf at the northern tip of North America was breaking up. "
A New Zealand scientist who has discovered a gaping crack in an Arctic ice shelf believes that the whole northern ice cap could melt within 70 years.
Dr Warwick Vincent, an Auckland-born expert on lakes who is now a professor at Laval University in Quebec City, Canada, has been overwhelmed by media calls since he announced on Tuesday that the Ward Hunt ice shelf at the northern tip of North America was breaking up. "
Comalco conditions scupper power plant
Talks aimed at establishing a 150-megawatt reserve electricity generation plant at Tiwai Point have collapsed after Comalco sought several million dollars for access to the site.
Meridian Energy spokesman Alan Seay said the state-owned generator was 'very disappointed agreement could not be reached after putting virtually all the pieces of the puzzle in place'. "
Talks aimed at establishing a 150-megawatt reserve electricity generation plant at Tiwai Point have collapsed after Comalco sought several million dollars for access to the site.
Meridian Energy spokesman Alan Seay said the state-owned generator was 'very disappointed agreement could not be reached after putting virtually all the pieces of the puzzle in place'. "
Hawke's Bay site confirmed for new reserve electricity generation plant
The Government is proceeding with plans to build a new 155 megawatt power plant at Whirinaki, Hawke's Bay, Energy Minister Pete Hodgson confirmed today.
Mr Hodgson said investigations of possible alternative sites for the plant in the South Island had not produced an option that would allow the plant to be built before next winter. "
The Government is proceeding with plans to build a new 155 megawatt power plant at Whirinaki, Hawke's Bay, Energy Minister Pete Hodgson confirmed today.
Mr Hodgson said investigations of possible alternative sites for the plant in the South Island had not produced an option that would allow the plant to be built before next winter. "
Hodgson could ease methane tax
The farming sector and Government may have found a solution to their standoff over the 'flatulence tax'.
Environment Minister Pete Hodgson has agreed to consider a new report into how much methane emission research is being done in the agricultural sector before he imposes the controversial levy to fund new research.
This could result in a big reduction to the $8.4 million the industry was expected to pay and may mean no new levy on farmers. "
The farming sector and Government may have found a solution to their standoff over the 'flatulence tax'.
Environment Minister Pete Hodgson has agreed to consider a new report into how much methane emission research is being done in the agricultural sector before he imposes the controversial levy to fund new research.
This could result in a big reduction to the $8.4 million the industry was expected to pay and may mean no new levy on farmers. "
Business News - Power market just a puppet show
Like the insoluble layers found in a home-made French dressing after it has been left to stand, the Government's terms of reference for its new Electricity Commission creates a strange emulsion of objectives and functions.
Running to 23 pages, the draft policy statement on electricity governance accommodates a wide range of possible roles and strategies.
At one end of the spectrum, the Government could progressively use its dominant ownership of generation, transmission and retailing, combined with its effective control of the new commission, to draw the industry back to a more traditional public utility regime. "
Like the insoluble layers found in a home-made French dressing after it has been left to stand, the Government's terms of reference for its new Electricity Commission creates a strange emulsion of objectives and functions.
Running to 23 pages, the draft policy statement on electricity governance accommodates a wide range of possible roles and strategies.
At one end of the spectrum, the Government could progressively use its dominant ownership of generation, transmission and retailing, combined with its effective control of the new commission, to draw the industry back to a more traditional public utility regime. "
Taranaki Fossil Fools Promote Burning Fossil Fuels
Auckland, Wednesday 24 September 2003: Greenpeace has criticised Taranaki lines company Powerco plans for burning gas for electricity. The concept is being reported as “environmentally friendly”
“Burning gas to make electricity is not and never will be environmentally friendly – this is industry greenwash,” said Greenpeace climate campaigner Annette Cotter.
Auckland, Wednesday 24 September 2003: Greenpeace has criticised Taranaki lines company Powerco plans for burning gas for electricity. The concept is being reported as “environmentally friendly”
“Burning gas to make electricity is not and never will be environmentally friendly – this is industry greenwash,” said Greenpeace climate campaigner Annette Cotter.
World-first global warming work underway
The International Global Change Institute is involved in ground-breaking work to address the threat posed by global warming.
A Waikato University-based team is spearheading world-first research into ways of managing the major potential risks associated with changing climate and rising sea levels in the Pacific Islands Region as a result of global warming.
A partnership, involving the International Global Change Institute (IGCI) – a financially self-supporting unit within the university – and Auckland-headquartered environmental and engineering consultancy Meritec, has won a ground-breaking contract from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
The International Global Change Institute is involved in ground-breaking work to address the threat posed by global warming.
A Waikato University-based team is spearheading world-first research into ways of managing the major potential risks associated with changing climate and rising sea levels in the Pacific Islands Region as a result of global warming.
A partnership, involving the International Global Change Institute (IGCI) – a financially self-supporting unit within the university – and Auckland-headquartered environmental and engineering consultancy Meritec, has won a ground-breaking contract from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
Forestry fortunes fall, plantings tail off
The devaluation of the Fletcher Challenge Forests' crop by roughly one third reflects the declining fortunes of the sector where new plantings are falling due to rising land prices, lower international prices and soaring freight charges.
Brokers who put together smaller forestry offerings and syndicates are also reporting a reduction in activity. Forest Enterprises business director Steve Wilton said his company is 'sitting on its hands' as far as new investment offerings are concerned and secondary market on-sales of investment units have also fallen.
Longer term, the bigger challenge is to maintain the plantings required under the Kyoto carbon-credit regime. According to many industry players the government may even have to subsidise new plantings if it hopes to fulfill its retain its obligations. They have formed a lobby group and intend to step up their activities in coming weeks. The government requires about 50,000ha to be planted annually but recent figures suggest this year there will be new plantings of just 10,000 to 20,000ha.
The devaluation of the Fletcher Challenge Forests' crop by roughly one third reflects the declining fortunes of the sector where new plantings are falling due to rising land prices, lower international prices and soaring freight charges.
Brokers who put together smaller forestry offerings and syndicates are also reporting a reduction in activity. Forest Enterprises business director Steve Wilton said his company is 'sitting on its hands' as far as new investment offerings are concerned and secondary market on-sales of investment units have also fallen.
Longer term, the bigger challenge is to maintain the plantings required under the Kyoto carbon-credit regime. According to many industry players the government may even have to subsidise new plantings if it hopes to fulfill its retain its obligations. They have formed a lobby group and intend to step up their activities in coming weeks. The government requires about 50,000ha to be planted annually but recent figures suggest this year there will be new plantings of just 10,000 to 20,000ha.
Australia Still Appears Short Of 2010 Kyoto Target
The latest scorecard on Australia's greenhouse gas emission levels suggests it will still likely miss its target at the end of the decade.
The 2001 National Greenhouse Gas Inventory issued Thursday projects Australia will reach around 110% of its 1990 greenhouse emission levels by 2010, shy of the 108% target Canberra agreed to under the 1997 Kyoto protocol."
The latest scorecard on Australia's greenhouse gas emission levels suggests it will still likely miss its target at the end of the decade.
The 2001 National Greenhouse Gas Inventory issued Thursday projects Australia will reach around 110% of its 1990 greenhouse emission levels by 2010, shy of the 108% target Canberra agreed to under the 1997 Kyoto protocol."
Carbon gas plan a credit to NZ
Two current events restore some sanity to the debate over climate change. They are a very welcome antidote to the antics of farmers and a tractor-driving, parliament-storming MP. "
Two current events restore some sanity to the debate over climate change. They are a very welcome antidote to the antics of farmers and a tractor-driving, parliament-storming MP. "
Infratil seeks carbon tax
Bring on the carbon tax, says Wellington-based investment company Infratil.
Without the tax, New Zealand was heading for a future of more coal-fired electricity power plants, it said.
Infratil has a controlling stake in electricity company TrustPower, which generates and retails electricity and has wind power and hydro power schemes under consideration.
An emissions tax would increase the cost of electricity but make renewable power schemes such as wind and new hydro schemes economic in Infratil's view.
Infratil electricity specialist Bruce Harker said that without the carbon tax, new wind and hydro power could not compete with coal-fired generation.
Without the tax, coal-fired generation was likely to play a bigger role in the electricity system and would add huge amounts of CO2 emissions."
Bring on the carbon tax, says Wellington-based investment company Infratil.
Without the tax, New Zealand was heading for a future of more coal-fired electricity power plants, it said.
Infratil has a controlling stake in electricity company TrustPower, which generates and retails electricity and has wind power and hydro power schemes under consideration.
An emissions tax would increase the cost of electricity but make renewable power schemes such as wind and new hydro schemes economic in Infratil's view.
Infratil electricity specialist Bruce Harker said that without the carbon tax, new wind and hydro power could not compete with coal-fired generation.
Without the tax, coal-fired generation was likely to play a bigger role in the electricity system and would add huge amounts of CO2 emissions."
Government Policy Statement Sets Agenda for New Electricity Commission
Media Statement from Hon Pete Hodgson, Minister of Energy"
Media Statement from Hon Pete Hodgson, Minister of Energy"
Government Policy Statement on Electricity Governance: Draft as at 14 September 2003
New on the MED site
New on the MED site
Further Government Decisions on Reserve Energy
New on the MED site
New on the MED site
Big users fear Government plan will boost power price
The Government's master plan for the electricity industry was unveiled yesterday and immediately sparked business worries that it will lock the country into a future of higher energy prices.
The Major Electricity Users Group was particularly concerned that the spot prices forecast in the plan would represent a considerable increase. "
The Government's master plan for the electricity industry was unveiled yesterday and immediately sparked business worries that it will lock the country into a future of higher energy prices.
The Major Electricity Users Group was particularly concerned that the spot prices forecast in the plan would represent a considerable increase. "
Govt dangles carbon credit carrot in front of businesses
Business executives and industry analysts will have six weeks to put together bids for between $28 million and $80 million worth of carbon credits being handed out by the Government for projects that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The Government is offering up to four million carbon credits - each equivalent to one tonne of carbon dioxide - that will be able to be sold internationally.
Some sales are already taking place outside of the anticipated Kyoto trading system and the Dutch Government's Erupt scheme is paying between $NZ7 and $NZ20 per tonne of carbon dioxide. Meridian's Te Apiti wind 'farm' is negotiating to sell its carbon credits to the Dutch. "
Business executives and industry analysts will have six weeks to put together bids for between $28 million and $80 million worth of carbon credits being handed out by the Government for projects that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The Government is offering up to four million carbon credits - each equivalent to one tonne of carbon dioxide - that will be able to be sold internationally.
Some sales are already taking place outside of the anticipated Kyoto trading system and the Dutch Government's Erupt scheme is paying between $NZ7 and $NZ20 per tonne of carbon dioxide. Meridian's Te Apiti wind 'farm' is negotiating to sell its carbon credits to the Dutch. "
Energy Efficiency
Great new guide for small to medium businesses on saving energy costs and helping with global warming at the same time - on line here but there is a paper version as well.
New Zealand Business Council for Sustainable Development
Great new guide for small to medium businesses on saving energy costs and helping with global warming at the same time - on line here but there is a paper version as well.
New Zealand Business Council for Sustainable Development
International collaboration on climate change
Associate Professor Ralph Sims and PhD student Phil Murray from the Centre for Renewable Energy are to work with United States scientists on climate change research.
They will take a lead role in two collaborate research projects as part of a wider partnership between the United States Departments of Commerce, Energy and State, the Environmental Protection Agency, NASA, the National Science Foundation, and the Consortium for Agricultural Soils Mitigation of Greenhouse Gases, universities and industry and a number of New Zealand research organisations including the Energy Efficiency Conservation Authority, NIWA and Industrial Research."
Associate Professor Ralph Sims and PhD student Phil Murray from the Centre for Renewable Energy are to work with United States scientists on climate change research.
They will take a lead role in two collaborate research projects as part of a wider partnership between the United States Departments of Commerce, Energy and State, the Environmental Protection Agency, NASA, the National Science Foundation, and the Consortium for Agricultural Soils Mitigation of Greenhouse Gases, universities and industry and a number of New Zealand research organisations including the Energy Efficiency Conservation Authority, NIWA and Industrial Research."
Emotion and political noise create a climate of fear and more taxes
Malcolm McPhee: Emotion and political noise create a climate of fear and more taxes
COMMENT
Gary Taylor's Perspectives article decrying farmers' protests at the planned flatulence tax was at it again - restating climate warming claims as scary facts, creating a climate of fear.
Even usually perceptive commentators such as Colin James seem bewitched: 'Is the globe warming? Yes, say almost all scientists ... ' "
etc...
GL: Malcolm McPhee can filter the acceptability of climate science on its effect on business if he chooses, but some greater accuracy and understanding would help.
Mr McPhee seems to think ozone destruction in the stratosphere by halogens is controversial. It is not. The reason for protecting the ozone there has nothing to do with climate but to retain ozone's filtering of sunlight UV. It is particular chlorine and other halogen compounds emitted by man that have caused the problem. They are not equivalent to other chlorine emissions as Mr McPhee seems to think.
Nor does the Kyoto Protocol call for 30% reductions carbon dioxide emissions by 2010, in Europe or anywhere.
Malcolm McPhee: Emotion and political noise create a climate of fear and more taxes
COMMENT
Gary Taylor's Perspectives article decrying farmers' protests at the planned flatulence tax was at it again - restating climate warming claims as scary facts, creating a climate of fear.
Even usually perceptive commentators such as Colin James seem bewitched: 'Is the globe warming? Yes, say almost all scientists ... ' "
etc...
GL: Malcolm McPhee can filter the acceptability of climate science on its effect on business if he chooses, but some greater accuracy and understanding would help.
Mr McPhee seems to think ozone destruction in the stratosphere by halogens is controversial. It is not. The reason for protecting the ozone there has nothing to do with climate but to retain ozone's filtering of sunlight UV. It is particular chlorine and other halogen compounds emitted by man that have caused the problem. They are not equivalent to other chlorine emissions as Mr McPhee seems to think.
Nor does the Kyoto Protocol call for 30% reductions carbon dioxide emissions by 2010, in Europe or anywhere.
Ethanol fuel given two-year tax break
Ethanol, blended with petrol, will be free from any excise taxes for at least two years.
The Government yesterday said it would hold off taxing the more environmentally friendly fuel blend, which has just been approved for use in New Zealand.
The oil companies had said they wanted some assurances that ethanol would not attract any excise charge before they would consider blending it into their fuels. "
Ethanol, blended with petrol, will be free from any excise taxes for at least two years.
The Government yesterday said it would hold off taxing the more environmentally friendly fuel blend, which has just been approved for use in New Zealand.
The oil companies had said they wanted some assurances that ethanol would not attract any excise charge before they would consider blending it into their fuels. "
No SUV New Zealand-Australia
Anti 4WD site - Facts on safety and economy - or lack of it.
Anti 4WD site - Facts on safety and economy - or lack of it.
Farmers must face up to climate change
Farmers must face up to climate change and help find solutions to greenhouse gas emissions from their industry, says the Convenor of the Ministerial Group on Climate Change, Pete Hodgson.
The proposed agricultural emissions research levy is aimed at finding solutions through science and farmers should think about the opportunities that research offers," Mr Hodgson said today.
The Government is exempting agriculture from emissions charges – the 'carbon tax' – on greenhouse gases produced by farming. Other industries face charges on their process emissions by 2008, but agriculture is exempt until at least 2012. If the Government really was imposing a 'flatuence tax' on farm emissions the cost to the sector would be almost $1 billion a year.
Farmers must face up to climate change and help find solutions to greenhouse gas emissions from their industry, says the Convenor of the Ministerial Group on Climate Change, Pete Hodgson.
The proposed agricultural emissions research levy is aimed at finding solutions through science and farmers should think about the opportunities that research offers," Mr Hodgson said today.
The Government is exempting agriculture from emissions charges – the 'carbon tax' – on greenhouse gases produced by farming. Other industries face charges on their process emissions by 2008, but agriculture is exempt until at least 2012. If the Government really was imposing a 'flatuence tax' on farm emissions the cost to the sector would be almost $1 billion a year.
Scoop: Farm Greenhouse Gas Emissions are Farmers' Problem
Federated Farmers view that research on animal methane emissions is for "public benefit" shows an extraordinary insensitivity to their own future says the Environmental Defence Society.
Society climate spokesperson Garry Law said, "their own argument about the importance of agriculture to the nation's economy would have made them think some more.
"Of the sectors in New Zealand society they are the one most at risk from climate change. Reducing climate change is not just for some general public benefit - it is vital to the future of New Zealand's and the world's agriculture.
"New Zealand farms make a massive contribution to New Zealand's greenhouse gas emissions. Yet they have been excused tax on their emissions at the rate other emitters will pay. The reasons for this were sound, but it was not a permanent concession - it was to buy time while solutions could be researched. As greenhouse gas emissions limits tighten in future, the farming sector will have to reduce as well. The rest of the economy will not be able to carry them. They should be finding out how to reduce now.
"Their view that the research tax was not in the global interest is based on the small contribution of New Zealand's emisisons to the world's total. Yet New Zealand is right up there with the developed nations in emissions for the size of our economy or population. No-one in that position can free-ride without it having a consequence in the long term and that may be trade barriers.
"Farmers are also overstating the offsetting contribution made to carbon sinks by forest lots on farms. They go no where near balancing the methane emissions from ruminant animals, said Mr Law. But EDS thinks farmers with forest lots should be getting a reward for new carbon credits they are creating.
"They failed in the first round of policy making on that issue. We don't think the matter is closed. They should try again, said Mr Law.
Federated Farmers view that research on animal methane emissions is for "public benefit" shows an extraordinary insensitivity to their own future says the Environmental Defence Society.
Society climate spokesperson Garry Law said, "their own argument about the importance of agriculture to the nation's economy would have made them think some more.
"Of the sectors in New Zealand society they are the one most at risk from climate change. Reducing climate change is not just for some general public benefit - it is vital to the future of New Zealand's and the world's agriculture.
"New Zealand farms make a massive contribution to New Zealand's greenhouse gas emissions. Yet they have been excused tax on their emissions at the rate other emitters will pay. The reasons for this were sound, but it was not a permanent concession - it was to buy time while solutions could be researched. As greenhouse gas emissions limits tighten in future, the farming sector will have to reduce as well. The rest of the economy will not be able to carry them. They should be finding out how to reduce now.
"Their view that the research tax was not in the global interest is based on the small contribution of New Zealand's emisisons to the world's total. Yet New Zealand is right up there with the developed nations in emissions for the size of our economy or population. No-one in that position can free-ride without it having a consequence in the long term and that may be trade barriers.
"Farmers are also overstating the offsetting contribution made to carbon sinks by forest lots on farms. They go no where near balancing the methane emissions from ruminant animals, said Mr Law. But EDS thinks farmers with forest lots should be getting a reward for new carbon credits they are creating.
"They failed in the first round of policy making on that issue. We don't think the matter is closed. They should try again, said Mr Law.
New gas extraction system examined at Burwood Fill
New gas extraction system examined at Burwood Landfill
The design for a gas extraction system aimed to alleviate neighbourhood concerns about odour from the Burwood Landfill is being commissioned by the City Council, says the City Council City Water and Waste Manager, Mike Stockwell.
It is proposed that gas will be pumped out of the landfill through vertical suction wells and piped to flares to be burnt off. Stage One of the project will cost about $800,000 but could be expanded to a more comprehensive gas extraction system costing up to $6m.
Mr Stockwell says the driver for the Stage One work is neighbourhood concern at odours from the landfill which the Council believes are caused by landfill gas, not refuse. The gas is not a health hazard when diluted by air, but the Council is responding to local concern.
If Stage Two proves viable, rather than flaring off the gas, it would be channelled to generators from which energy would be sold back to the main city grid. It is possible that the Council would enter a joint venture with industry to develop Stage Two on a commercial basis."
New gas extraction system examined at Burwood Landfill
The design for a gas extraction system aimed to alleviate neighbourhood concerns about odour from the Burwood Landfill is being commissioned by the City Council, says the City Council City Water and Waste Manager, Mike Stockwell.
It is proposed that gas will be pumped out of the landfill through vertical suction wells and piped to flares to be burnt off. Stage One of the project will cost about $800,000 but could be expanded to a more comprehensive gas extraction system costing up to $6m.
Mr Stockwell says the driver for the Stage One work is neighbourhood concern at odours from the landfill which the Council believes are caused by landfill gas, not refuse. The gas is not a health hazard when diluted by air, but the Council is responding to local concern.
If Stage Two proves viable, rather than flaring off the gas, it would be channelled to generators from which energy would be sold back to the main city grid. It is possible that the Council would enter a joint venture with industry to develop Stage Two on a commercial basis."
Belch tax lets farmers off far too lightly
COMMENT
It's hard to understand how farmers, who are totally dependent for their livelihoods on an equable climate, could be so hostile to Government action on climate change. They have more to lose from climate change than any of us.
Global warming already threatens the sector with more extreme weather events that will lead to stock losses, higher insurance premiums and lost productivity. It is vital for the credibility of the Government's international commitments on global warming that it holds its nerve on the proposed research levy.
COMMENT
It's hard to understand how farmers, who are totally dependent for their livelihoods on an equable climate, could be so hostile to Government action on climate change. They have more to lose from climate change than any of us.
Global warming already threatens the sector with more extreme weather events that will lead to stock losses, higher insurance premiums and lost productivity. It is vital for the credibility of the Government's international commitments on global warming that it holds its nerve on the proposed research levy.
Feds fear fart tax precedent
Federated Farmers believes the Government is in danger of undermining New Zealand's competitiveness in agriculture for no good purpose by going ahead with its plan to collect a levy for research into agricultural greenhouse gas emissions.
Federated Farmers believes the Government is in danger of undermining New Zealand's competitiveness in agriculture for no good purpose by going ahead with its plan to collect a levy for research into agricultural greenhouse gas emissions.
Farmers already committed to methane research - scientist
Farmers are spending $60 million a year on research, much of it relevant to reducing livestock methane emissions, contrary to Government claims, it was claimed yesterday.
Dunedin scientist Jock Allison disputed Government claims that farmers were spending little on research, saying that over the next five years farmers have committed $60 million a year, some of it relevant to reducing methane.
But Dr Allison said the sector was already funding $60 million worth of overall research a year, compared to the $40 million contributed by Government. "
Farmers are spending $60 million a year on research, much of it relevant to reducing livestock methane emissions, contrary to Government claims, it was claimed yesterday.
Dunedin scientist Jock Allison disputed Government claims that farmers were spending little on research, saying that over the next five years farmers have committed $60 million a year, some of it relevant to reducing methane.
But Dr Allison said the sector was already funding $60 million worth of overall research a year, compared to the $40 million contributed by Government. "
Hot air and that protocol
Has global warming been proven? And if it has, is the Kyoto Protocol, and the planned animal emissions tax, the sensible way to go about tackling the issue of greenhouse gas warming? Asks an editorial in the Manawatu Standard.
On the face of it, planning a levy which will cost farmers an average of only $300 a year doesn't seem such a terrible thing to propose for research into agricultural gas emissions. A sort of user-pays impost in reverse, and not, surely, an especially severe one. But setting aside the science of the matter, is it reasonable to expect a particular sector, as opposed to the taxpayer in general, to help pay for such work?
Obviously those potentially most affected, farmers, don't believe so and like Maori are prepared to do the time-honoured thing and march on Parliament to emphasise their point of view. A cynic might say that it's all hot air anyway because both the Labour government and farmers know their true supporters are to be found elsewhere."
Has global warming been proven? And if it has, is the Kyoto Protocol, and the planned animal emissions tax, the sensible way to go about tackling the issue of greenhouse gas warming? Asks an editorial in the Manawatu Standard.
On the face of it, planning a levy which will cost farmers an average of only $300 a year doesn't seem such a terrible thing to propose for research into agricultural gas emissions. A sort of user-pays impost in reverse, and not, surely, an especially severe one. But setting aside the science of the matter, is it reasonable to expect a particular sector, as opposed to the taxpayer in general, to help pay for such work?
Obviously those potentially most affected, farmers, don't believe so and like Maori are prepared to do the time-honoured thing and march on Parliament to emphasise their point of view. A cynic might say that it's all hot air anyway because both the Labour government and farmers know their true supporters are to be found elsewhere."
Legislation soon unless industry comes up with voluntary fund
The agriculture industry has a few weeks to come up with proposals to voluntarily fund greenhouse gas research before the Government presses ahead with legislation for an animals emissions levy.
A spokesman for cabinet minister Pete Hodgson, who is in charge of climate change policy, today told NZPA the legislation for the levy was being drafted and would be introduced later this year unless the industry decided on a voluntary fund. "
The agriculture industry has a few weeks to come up with proposals to voluntarily fund greenhouse gas research before the Government presses ahead with legislation for an animals emissions levy.
A spokesman for cabinet minister Pete Hodgson, who is in charge of climate change policy, today told NZPA the legislation for the levy was being drafted and would be introduced later this year unless the industry decided on a voluntary fund. "
Business attacks PM's climate stand
The Federal Government's voluntary approach to climate change will do more damage to the economy than any restrictions on greenhouse emissions, a report prepared for Australia's leading businessmen has found.
The nation's top 100 executives will be told that the uncertainty created by the current strategy has the potential to disrupt investment plans and the adoption of new technology.
The Business Council of Australia engaged consultants E3 International after it retreated from its opposition to signing the Kyoto Protocol to a neutral stance.
At a cabinet meeting last Tuesday, the Prime Minister, John Howard, is said to have rejected advice from Treasury and the Department of Environment to establish a national carbon trading system."
The Federal Government's voluntary approach to climate change will do more damage to the economy than any restrictions on greenhouse emissions, a report prepared for Australia's leading businessmen has found.
The nation's top 100 executives will be told that the uncertainty created by the current strategy has the potential to disrupt investment plans and the adoption of new technology.
The Business Council of Australia engaged consultants E3 International after it retreated from its opposition to signing the Kyoto Protocol to a neutral stance.
At a cabinet meeting last Tuesday, the Prime Minister, John Howard, is said to have rejected advice from Treasury and the Department of Environment to establish a national carbon trading system."
Aus PM cans carbon trading scheme
JOHN Howard has put the kybosh on a carbon trading scheme designed to reduce greenhouse gases, after heeding industry's protest that it would drive investment offshore.
Cabinet's decision represents a big win for the power companies, miners, aluminium producers and manufacturers who lobbied hard to stop the carbon trading system on the basis that it was a carbon tax. "
JOHN Howard has put the kybosh on a carbon trading scheme designed to reduce greenhouse gases, after heeding industry's protest that it would drive investment offshore.
Cabinet's decision represents a big win for the power companies, miners, aluminium producers and manufacturers who lobbied hard to stop the carbon trading system on the basis that it was a carbon tax. "
Levy through farming groups just as unpopular as 'fart tax'
Farmers have vowed to continue the fight against any levies for research into greenhouse gas emissions as the Government indicates it may drop the contentious flatulence tax.
Science Minister Pete Hodgson yesterday denied that the Government was retreating in the face of the farmers' revolt. It was simply looking at going back to its preferred policy of farming bodies, such as Fonterra, voluntarily levying farmers.
This had been the initial plan last year, but when the farming bodies indicated they would not collect the levy, the Government planned to pass legislation to impose the tax.
Farmers have vowed to continue the fight against any levies for research into greenhouse gas emissions as the Government indicates it may drop the contentious flatulence tax.
Science Minister Pete Hodgson yesterday denied that the Government was retreating in the face of the farmers' revolt. It was simply looking at going back to its preferred policy of farming bodies, such as Fonterra, voluntarily levying farmers.
This had been the initial plan last year, but when the farming bodies indicated they would not collect the levy, the Government planned to pass legislation to impose the tax.
