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New Zealand Halves Methane Reduction Target Amid Controversy

10/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The New Zealand government revised its methane reduction target to 14-24% below 2017 levels by 2050, nearly halving the prior goal.
The change follows the 2024 Methane Science Review.
Farmers support the adjustment.
Climate experts condemn the move as a regression.
The government plans to explore earlier actions and address free carbon credits for industrial polluters.

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Story summary

The New Zealand government revised its methane reduction target to 14-24% below 2017 levels by 2050, nearly halving the prior goal.
The change follows the 2024 Methane Science Review.
Farmers support the adjustment.
Climate experts condemn the move as a regression.
The government plans to explore earlier actions and address free carbon credits for industrial polluters.