Climate Crisis

The climate change adaption imperative was the topic for this morning’s talk by Judy Lawrence, Senior Research Fellow at the NZ Climate Change Research Institute at Victoria University of Wellington. Judy came to us via Zoom, rather than using fossil fuels to travel to Christchurch. Her message was harsh, but not without hope.

Judy is one of the authors of the 6th IPCC Assessment Report, which shows that greenhouse gas emissions are at the highest level in human history. This report is unprecedented, as no other topic has ever been so carefully and widely considered. The idea of limiting global warming to 1.5° is no longer feasible, but the decisions we make now could ensure a livable future.

An important risk is the marine heatwave which is affecting fish. The ability of institutions and governance systems to manage climate risks is uncertain, with the vulnerability of low income people critical and expected to grow. We have to adapt to climate change, but maladaption can have unintended consequences. For instance, building sea walls can give people a false sense of security. Political commitment is vital, as is the follow-through of that commitment. It’s essential to monitor and evaluate adaptation measures so we can track progress.

Reform of the Resource Management Act in Aotearoa is a vital part of adaptation, but finance for all this is uncertain. Half of our emissions come from agriculture. Local and central government need to work in partnership over climate change, and it’s important to engage with communities. We need to find new ways of raising finance, using land, and working together. Māori iwi have developed strategies for adaptation and supporting Māori institutions is part of adapting to climate change. They look at generations ahead and Pākehā could use that pattern. We must put people and communities at the heart of adaptation.

Someone mentioned that fact that owning an Alsatian dog had been calculated to have as high a carbon footprint as running an SUV, and asked whether we have too many pets? Judy’s response was that we all need to explore our own lifestyles and make adjustments today. When asked about the impact of population growth on climate change she said we need enough people and capacity to make adjustments and reduce emissions, considering lifestyle patterns while maintaining migration. We have to work out how we can have sustainable employment and the necessary tax contribution. Asked about the role of international capitalism she pointed out that the U.N. has proved to be completely ineffective over the war in Ukraine. However the U.N. Secretary General has used strong language about climate change and has set up a group to see how countries can meet and increase their commitment.

Judy acknowledged the role of young people, such as Greta Thunberg, in raising awareness of climate change, and we will see more of this. Scientists are staunch in their advocacy and social media means we are exposed to what’s happening globally. All this helps to give confidence that positive change can happen.

We know what to do and how to do it. It’s now up to us to do it together.

We all must reduce our emission
to keep within a safe condition