Welcome to the Net-Zero New Zealand Project

In the context of climate change, Net-Zero refers to having achieved a balance between the  greenhouse gases that humans put into the atmosphere and those that we help absorb. Climate scientists from around the world identified that we need to reach Net-Zero as fast as possible to limit the impacts of climate change. In 2019, the New Zealand Government announced a Net-Zero target of 2050 for carbon dioxide (one of the longest lasting greenhouse gases). However, unlike many other countries with Net-Zero targets, New Zealand’s Net-Zero target does not include methane; a powerful greenhouse gas that stems mostly from agriculture.

Therefore, while we maintain a clean and green image internationally, us New Zealanders are in fact the sixth highest emitters of greenhouse gases in the world, emitting 17.2 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent per person. This is largely due to methane, which makes up almost half of New Zealand’s total emissions. Regardless of the greenhouse gas in question, it is clear that reaching a ‘Net-Zero New Zealand’ requires significant decarbonisation of society. Transforming our society in this manner requires changes to the everyday behaviours in our society: our norms.

With all of this in mind, this project sets out to explore what norms are associated with a Net-Zero New Zealand and understand the opportunities and barriers involved in developing them. To get involved you can take part in the nationwide survey on Net-Zero norms here, read about case studies of Net-Zero New Zealanders here or simply keep up to date with Net-Zero news and resources here.