The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has concluded the first round of consultations on sectoral emission targets (SETs).
The SETs, initially published for public comment in May last year, aim to align sector-specific emissions reduction efforts with economic development and job creation.
The DFFE is in the process of refining the targets to incorporate feedback from industry stakeholders and the public. The revised SETs are expected to provide a structured approach to emissions reduction while ensuring feasibility for affected sectors including energy, manufacturing and agriculture. “The feedback received through the public consultations has helped ensure that the SETs are effective in addressing climate change and conducive to sustainable economic development,” says Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Dr Dion George.
The revised SETs will be submitted for inter-ministerial discussions in March in accordance with section 25(3) of the Climate Change Act. These discussions will focus on integrating emission reduction targets with national development plans, George said. “The SETs will provide a clear framework for sectors to reduce their emissions, which in turn will drive the transition to a low-carbon economy. This transition is expected to create significant employment opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, energy efficiency and sustainable agriculture.”
