Government 'wilfully blind' on climate change, specialists say

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Despite frequent warnings from scientists that climate change is worsening faster than expected, the current government is displaying ‘wilful blindness’ to the facts according to climate specialists. If the lacklustre new emissions reduction target isn’t enough, climate change is no longer a top threat for the defence force in its latest spending plan. Climate change was only mentioned twice despite constant warnings. What is needed for the government to take experts seriously?

What’s more, is that the New Zealand public’s concern over the impact of climate change and perceived importance of climate action is declining – according to the latest Ipsos report on people and climate change. The report shows a clear misunderstanding of both the threat of climate change and our role in reducing global emissions. Another study found that although most New Zealander’s support the country meeting our climate commitments, many didn’t know the details of the targets. Perhaps New Zealanders are all slightly ignorant to the impact climate change will have – citizens and politicians alike.

If we fail to effectively respond to climate change through mitigation, we will need to have plans in place to adapt to its impacts – such as severe weather. A select-committee report presented to government on climate change adaptation provides frameworks for making decisions surrounding adaptation, but political heavyweights were notably absent from the debate – even our minister for climate change displaying wilful blindness.

But enough of what we’re blind to – what should we keep our eyes out for? Winter electricity prices are rising – how do you know if you’re getting value for money? Truck drivers are laying their eyes on hydrogen trucks for the first time, drumming up excitement in the trucking industry.

Keep your eyes peeled for developments in electric vehicle battery recycling, as companies are finding new innovative ways to retrieve rare earth metals from used power cells. Finally, take a look at how using natural fungi can help boost forest growth by 30 percent, reducing emissions through natural means.

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Here is the full list of articles...

Climate change specialists have criticised the New Zealand government for being "wilfully blind" to the climate crisis. They argue that the government's inaction and failure to implement effective policies are exacerbating the situation. Despite international scientific consensus on the urgency of addressing climate change, the government's approach remains insufficient, with experts calling for immediate and substantial measures to mitigate environmental damage. The specialists emphasise the need for comprehensive strategies and leadership to combat the escalating climate emergency. Read more…

The New Zealand Defence Force's 2025 Capability Plan has significantly reduced the emphasis on climate change as a security threat. Unlike the 2019 plan, which highlighted climate change as a primary concern and dedicated a chapter to it, the new plan mentions climate change only twice in a single paragraph, focusing solely on its impact on Pacific Island nations. Defence Minister Judith Collins declined to explain the change, and the Ministry referred questions back to her. This shift has raised concerns among climate experts and opposition parties. Read more…

The Ipsos Aotearoa New Zealand People and Climate Change Report 2025 highlights a decline in public concern and perceived urgency regarding climate change. While a majority of New Zealanders acknowledge the need for action, fewer believe the government, businesses, or individuals are taking sufficient steps. The report indicates that 65% feel the government is failing to act, and 70% believe businesses are not doing enough. Additionally, 73% think individuals must act now to prevent failing future generations. Despite this, the sense of urgency has decreased compared to previous years. Read more…

Most New Zealanders support the country meeting its international climate targets, although many do not know what this involves. Eloise Gibson sets out how the Paris Agreement works, and how the current government seems hesitant to truly meet its commitments. The benefits of mitigating clearly stack up, even for neoliberal economics, but the coalition has been unclear on whether they intend to put in the mahi, and haven’t yet put in any meaningful legwork to meet our fair share of emissions reductions. Read more…

The short-sighted nature of New Zealand politics is limiting our ability to adapt quickly to climate change. The report from a Select Committee Inquiry into Climate change Adaptation is evidence of this, focusing largely on disaster-response in the form of compensation while ignoring the bigger question of how to adapt to prevent the need for disaster-response. The minister for climate change was even absent from the correlating House debate. A proposed government bill to solidify this inquiry’s suggestions may merely delay the tricky decisions even further. Read more…

Household electricity bills are set to rise in New Zealand because regulators are increasing charges for long-distance electricity transmission and short-distance distribution. These charges make up 40% of an average electricity bill, and for the average household 15% of the budget is spent on electricity, so these changes could have significant impacts. The rising costs might normally reflect improvements in value for money for customers; however, consumer behaviours are changing and there is a need for a regulatory overhaul which means this might not be the case. Read more…

Truck drivers in New Zealand are testing the country’s first locally built hydrogen-powered trucks, which offer a quiet, emissions-free alternative to diesel. Truck leasing firm TR Group showcased two models—one by Global Bus Ventures and one by Hyundai—at Hampton Downs, giving potential customers a chance to drive them. Though expensive and limited by refuelling infrastructure, the trucks drew positive reviews. Government funding helped TR Group order 20 vehicles, supporting companies seeking sustainable freight options too large for current electric trucks. Broader rollout depends on demand and expanding refuelling stations. Read more…

Electric vehicle (EV) batteries are difficult to recycle, but companies like Altilium in the UK are pioneering new methods to retrieve valuable materials like lithium, nickel, cobalt, and graphite from used cells. Using hydrometallurgy instead of polluting pyrometallurgy, they aim to create a closed-loop battery supply chain. Recycling reduces reliance on mining, mitigates environmental harm, and enhances national energy security. Though still early-stage, recycling could supply up to 40% of battery materials by 2040, easing the shift to sustainable, circular economies amid rising EV demand. Read more…

Scientists at Funga PBC have developed a natural method to boost tree growth by 30% using native fungi, aiding climate change efforts. Restoring fungal communities to tree roots enhances nutrient uptake, drought resistance, and survival rates. Backed by the Arbor Day Foundation, this method can increase forest carbon capture by up to 40%, equating to significant CO₂ absorption. Funga aims to expand treated areas to 20,000 acres by 2026, fostering healthier, self-sustaining forest ecosystems through improved microbiomes and partnerships. Read more…

Hydrology Report - 1st May 2025

Electricity Price Index - 1st May 2025

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