Hello, everyone!

We are here today to shed light on the challenges faced by communities in New Zealand due to climate change and the actions we expect from our government to combat these impacts.

One of the key challenges the communities face in respect to climate change is extreme weather events. Rising temperatures and changing weather patterns are leading to more frequent and severe droughts and floods. These events are devastating our homes, farmlands, and livelihoods.
Another major challenge is the loss of biodiversity. Our ecosystems are under threat, and this affects the food security, water supply, and overall well-being. The communities need the government to act on the climate change urgently to protect the natural environment.

What do we expect from our government?
First, the communities need strong and comprehensive policies and regulations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Transitioning to clean energy sources and supporting sustainable practices in agriculture and industry is essential.
Secondly, New Zealanders need increased investment in climate resilience and adaptation measures. The New Zealand government should allocate adequate resources to build infrastructure, provide early warning systems, and support communities in adapting to the changing climate.

New Zealand Net-Zero Carbon by 2050 includes the use of electric vehicles by the societies to combat climate change, but electric vehicles are not affordable. The New Zealand government released its emissions reduction targets and budgets that sets out how New Zealand will meet its first emissions budget, covering 2022-2025. The budget could reduce emissions to 290 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent between now and 2025.

To conclude, we, the communities on the ground, call on our government to take bold action to combat climate change. The communities need policies that protect their homes, livelihoods, and natural heritage. But climate change is a global threat. Together, let's make COP 28 a turning point for our planet!

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