In Aotearoa New Zealand, changes in climate – such as temperature and rainfall – are already occurring. We have to adapt, and we have to contribute to international efforts to limit the global temperature increase by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The stakes are high for Aotearoa New Zealand where farmers and growers are both critical to our economy and directly exposed to the impacts of the changing climate.
Agricultural greenhouse gas emissions (methane and nitrous oxide) are a significant source of emissions in Aotearoa New Zealand.
We need to urgently step up efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from all sources, as part of global efforts to limit warming.
He Waka Eke Noa – Primary Sector Climate Action Partnership focuses on reducing agricultural greenhouse gas emissions and building the agriculture sector’s resilience to climate change.
At the same time, we have to continue the transition to higher-value, more environmentally sustainable farming systems, to support our wellbeing and that of future generations.
Our economy relies heavily on our primary sector, which contributes 20% of GDP, one out of 10 jobs and 75% of merchandise exports.
Sustainability is what consumers, more than ever, expect from farmers and growers. The Partnership will help Aotearoa New Zealand retain our competitive advantage in a low-emissions global economy and our reputation for having some of the most sustainable agricultural practices in the world.
Farmers and growers
are stewards of the environment.
Many are working to protect the environment for future generations. Māori landowners have strong kinship ties to the natural world and as kaitiaki are responsible for its protection and restoration.
We will continue to see the impact of climate change on our land and our environment. We can expect higher temperatures, especially in the east of Aotearoa New Zealand, more frequent and severe weather events such as floods, especially in the west and south, and droughts, especially in the north and east.
The Ministry for the Environment has information about how climate change could affect your region.
Many farmers are already adapting, even as research continues.
Many farmers and growers have already reduced on-farm agricultural emissions per unit of production through steps such as having fewer but more profitable animals, managing fertiliser use more efficiently, and planting trees.
He Waka Eke Noa aims to equip farmers and growers to go further by measuring, managing and reducing on-farm emissions and recognising, maintaining or increasing sequestration on farms.
“Me Uru Kahikatea.”
Relates to the long roots of the Kahikatea tree and the way they intertwine and stand together which highlights the strength of working together.
Traci Houpapa, Chairman of the Federation of Māori Authorities