The government’s plan to introduce a new Zero Carbon Bill has brought thousands of people together to discuss how we address climate change.

More than 14,000 submissions were received during the six-week consultation, which closed last week.

Minister for Climate Change James Shaw said he is impressed by the number of businesses and farming leaders that have stood up to share their commitment to leading the change.

“I believe there will be many benefits that come from us taking advantage of the opportunities from the transition that the Zero Carbon Bill will help us achieve,” Shaw noted.

The bill aims to reduce emissions to net zero by 2050, and sets up the steps and the institutions needed to get reach the goal, such as an independent Climate Change Commission.

“What’s really promising is that the vast majority of New Zealanders are firmly behind us taking action,” Shaw said. “In particular, I welcome the bi-partisan support we’ve had for key parts of the bill.

“People have told us they are already concerned about the damage they can see from climate change; the increase in storms and droughts, and rising sea levels,” he added.

The minister said the next step would be to review all the received feedback and draft a bill that will be enduring.

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