NZ Government: Stand with the Pacific at COP23

Written By: - Date published: 11:50 am, October 31st, 2017 - 2 comments
Categories: Environment, global warming - Tags: , ,

They’ve made it into government, and now they need to urgently get to work on climate!

Next week the United Nations climate talks begin in Bonn, Germany. For the first time, a Pacific Island nation is the President of the talks: Fiji. The Pacific Island governments, backed by the Pacific Climate Warriors will be pushing hard for action to limit warming to 1.5 degrees. The talks need to be about keeping fossil fuels in the ground, and bringing on a just transition to 100% renewables for all.

We need the New Zealand government to front up, and stand shoulder to shoulder with the Pacific Islands, with ambition and courageous leadership. For the first time in a long time, this could happen.

Prime Minister Ardern and Minister Shaw have the opportunity to start to turn back years of weak leadership on climate change from New Zealand. They can show that New Zealand is ready for action by supporting the Pacific Climate Warrior declaration, and giving voice to the demands at the talks.

Both Ardern and Shaw have participated in 350.org events in the past, we know they are passionate about climate change and the Pacific, so we know this is possible – but only if enough of us raise our voices. 

Sign the letter here and also the “Have Your Sei” declaration by the Pacific Climate Warriors.

2 comments on “NZ Government: Stand with the Pacific at COP23 ”

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  1. Ad 1
    31 October 2017 at 2:20 pm

    Shaw is now proposing a refugee category for climate change.
    This would take us beyond the UN requirements for refugee status.
    But it would be an interesting leadership position.
    Let’s see how he goes with the Minister of Immigration.

  2. Matthew Whitehead 2
    31 October 2017 at 11:19 pm

    Shaw has stated publicly he already believes the new government’s climate change plan is consistent with the Pacific Islands’ position that warming should be limited to 1.5°C, so I’m hoping that we can expect a really positive reception even without pressuring the new Government, but that said, by all means let them know- even if they’re already decided, it will help bolster Shaw’s position in having chosen the right thing to do.