Response to David Parker's comments on emissions trading

Press release - April 24, 2007
Greenpeace today welcomed Energy Minister David Parker's comments today that emissions trading needs to be across all greenhouse gases, and the whole economy.

"Climate change is a responsibility for all of us - but it is only fair that those who cause the problem should pay for it," said Carmen Gravatt Greenpeace Campaign Manager.

"Mr Parker's comments that the emissions trading system would cover all greenhouse gases are likely to spark off a whole round of pleadings for exemption from special interest groups - but he should not waiver."

Greenpeace warned that an emissions trading regime would take a long time to set up, so repeated its call for a carbon charge in the meantime.

 "We agree with the Government on a need to get a price on carbon - but it needs to be as soon as possible - our emissions are continuing to rise."

Other contacts: Carmen Gravatt, Campaign manager 021 302 251 Cindy Baxter 021 772 661