Mon Sep 09 15:21:04 UTC 2024: ## New Zealand Companies Fall Short on Climate Action Transparency: Study

**Wellington, New Zealand** – A new study by researchers at The Conversation, using the Climate Action Tracker Aotearoa (CATA), has revealed that while many New Zealand companies have set emissions reduction targets, they often lack the transparency and detail needed to assess their actual progress towards climate action.

The study analyzed 21 companies, including major players in energy, retail, agriculture, transport, and banking, based on their publicly available information. While a majority have set 2030 targets, only a small percentage have targets verified by the Science-based Targets Initiative.

The study also found inconsistencies in how companies report their plans for achieving emissions reductions. While some companies provide detailed and transparent roadmaps, many lack the specifics needed to understand how their targets will be met.

A particular concern highlighted is the lack of transparency around carbon offsetting. While many companies are using or intending to use offsets, few specify their conditions for using them, and many fail to prioritize reducing emissions before relying on offsets.

The researchers emphasize the need for more transparency regarding carbon removal strategies, with many companies failing to meet the standards outlined by the World Economic Forum and the Ministry for the Environment.

The study concludes that while many companies are reporting carbon emissions, the information is often fragmented and difficult to access. This lack of transparency can lead to misleading perceptions of a company’s climate action. The researchers urge companies to use the CATA tool to benchmark their reporting and provide clearer, more comprehensive information to stakeholders.

This study serves as a crucial reminder that setting targets alone is not sufficient for achieving meaningful climate action. Detailed, transparent plans and clear reporting are essential for driving real progress towards a sustainable future.

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