Frequently asked questions

In this strategy, we use ‘emissions’ as shorthand for greenhouse gases (GHGs) which trap heat in the atmosphere and contribute to climate change. GHG emissions include: 

• carbon dioxide (CO2) from burning fossil fuels for transport, manufacturing, construction and energy 
• methane (CH4) from livestock and waste.

For more information about emissions, see Emissions - Kāpiti Coast District Council

‘Gross’ emissions are the greenhouse gas emissions from human activities, such as using a petrol or diesel vehicle. 

Gross emissions can be contrasted with ‘net’ emissions, which is the overall balance of emissions when we also include efforts to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, such as from forestry.  

Our aspirational goal is a ‘net zero’ Kāpiti by 2040. 

Net zero means we're removing as much carbon from the atmosphere as we put into it. Reducing emissions to net zero would: 

• bring a range of benefits and opportunities for Kāpiti 
• mean our district is no longer contributing to climate change.

Our proposed strategy is cut ‘gross’ emissions as close to zero as possible and then offset any difficult remaining emissions, such as by planting trees. We think that focusing on gross emission reductions is the best way to maximise the benefits of decarbonisation.

Trees, soil, wetlands and oceans all naturally support the removal or ‘sequestration’ of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Planting trees, improving soil health and restoring wetlands all help to sequester carbon. 

We're committed to doing further analysis on the most cost-effective and beneficial sequestration opportunities in Kāpiti.

We don't have plans to purchase carbon credits through the Emissions Trading Scheme. 

By reducing emissions, your household/business could:

• Save money: by improving energy efficiency and adopting clean, cost-effective technologies 
• Improve health: by making homes warmer and drier, improving air quality, and having safe options to walk and cycle 
• Improve resilience: by taking advantage of rooftop and community solar to improve energy security  
• Seize other benefits: such as more innovation, productivity, business competitiveness, and building more vibrant and connected communities.

We know that people and businesses across Kāpiti are already taking action to reduce emissions. This emissions reduction strategy will help to focus and accelerate these efforts so that we maximise the benefits of decarbonisation and play our part to lessen the impacts of a changing climate.

In 2024, the Climate Change Commission advised that increasing the ambition of New Zealand’s target to achieve net zero before 2050 would still be achievable while continuing to grow the economy.

Aspiring to achieve net zero by 2040 will allow Kāpiti to:

• Position itself as an earlier adopter of sustainable practices and maximise the benefits of decarbonisation.
• Take advantage of the lower cost associated with making the transition earlier, and avoid the need for harsher, costlier changes later.

Cutting Kāpiti district’s emissions will contribute to meeting New Zealand’s national emission reduction targets under the Zero Carbon Act. These are: 

• net zero emissions (except biogenic methane) by 2050
• reduce biogenic methane 24-47% by 2050

It's important to measure our emissions so we can track progress over time. Emissions for the Kāpiti Coast district are currently measured as part of Greater Wellington Regional Council’s regional emissions inventory. For more information see Emissions - Kāpiti Coast District Council

Council declared a climate emergency in 2019 and is committed to being a strong and effective leader on climate change. 

Council has a legal duty under the Resource Management Act to consider the effects of a changing climate on their communities. 

The strategy will be reviewed every five years to ensure our efforts take account of new opportunities and challenges.

No budget has been assigned to this strategy, but action plans to implement the strategy will be budgeted as part of future annual plans and long-term plans. There will be further opportunities to have your say on these action plans.