Emissions Trading Scheme
The Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) is a tool that puts a price on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Businesses in the New Zealand ETS are required to buy units (NZUs - also known as carbon credits) to cover their emissions.
It is established under the Climate Change Response Act 2002, which is the legal framework that enables New Zealand to meet international obligations with regard to climate change.
ETS updates
RMA and Process Heat
Changes to the RMA in 2020 mean that from 31 December 2021, Councils will be able to consider the effects of discharges of greenhouse gases on climate change (this was previously excluded) and when preparing plans must have regard to emissions reductions plans and national adaption plans.