New Zealand’s Parliament U-turns on Ban: Country Set to Explore Offshore Oil and Gas
New Zealand’s parliament has voted to lift the ban on offshore oil and gas exploration in the country, a reversal of the previous administration’s policy. The move, which passed with a majority of 14 votes, has drawn strong opposition from environmental groups.
The bill, tabled by the current government, seeks to open up new areas for petroleum exploration in New Zealand’s territorial waters. This decision marks a shift from the previous administration’s 2018 ban on new oil and gas exploration permits, which was led by former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.
Proponents of the bill argue that it will stimulate economic growth and create jobs in the energy sector. However, environmental advocates have criticized the move, stating that it undermines New Zealand’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to renewable energy.
“We’re extremely disappointed with this decision,” said Eric konfigur, spokesperson for Greenpeace New Zealand. “It’s a clear signal that this government is more interested in propping up a bygone industry than investing in a clean, green future.”
The bill allows for new permits to be issued, provided the areas are not already covered by existing permits. It also includes provisions to ensure that any new drilling operations comply with strict environmental standards.
The decision comes amidst a global trend towards reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting renewable energy sources. New Zealand, however, is a significant oil and gas producer, and the government has emphasized the importance of maintaining this industry while also transitioning to a low-emission economy.
“The government remains committed to meeting our Paris Agreement targets,” said a spokesperson for the Ministry of Energy and Resources. “However, we believe that a balanced approach, which includes responsibly managing our oil and gas resources, is the best way to ensure a sustainable energy future for New Zealand.”
As New Zealand navigates this contentious issue, one thing is clear: the country’s energy policy will continue to be a topic of intense debate in the years to come.
