The New Zealand Government has announced resetting the biogenic methane emissions reduction target to between 14 per cent and 24 per cent below 2017 levels, while maintaining the net-zero target for other long-lived gases.

This is a significant change from the previous goal of 24–47 per cent reduction by 2050, with a 10 per cent reduction target for 2030.

Current targets include net-zero emissions for all greenhouse gases except biogenic methane by 2050.

A review of the biogenic methane target will occur in 2040, with the 2030 target remaining unchanged.

The Climate Change Response Act mandates a review of New Zealand’s 2050 climate targets every five years, influenced by advice from the Climate Change Commission and an independent review of methane science.

New Zealand’s climate strategy adopts a split gas approach, recognising the distinct impacts of biogenic methane compared to long-lived greenhouse gases.