Glassey, P.J.; Talwar, S.; Lawson, R.V.; Tang, X.; Barr, A. 2023 Critical minerals for our transition to net zero emissions by 2050: some New Zealand public perceptions. Lower Hutt, N.Z.: GNS Science. GNS Science report 2023/52. 67 p.; doi: 10.21420/M9VW-QG57
Abstract
Net zero emissions pathways reduce the physical and economic risks of climate change. This will require transformational changes in energy production. Critical Minerals are fundamental to low-emission, renewable energy technologies, such as solar, wind and batteries. Demand for these minerals is projected to increase significantly in the next 20 years to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. There is currently little research in New Zealand on public attitudes relating to mining Critical Minerals to achieve the country’s net zero carbon agenda. To address this gap, an online survey and a focus group discussion explored trade-offs between biodiversity / environmental protection, net zero carbon emissions and mining of Critical Minerals. While the survey samples are not random and representative of New Zealand society, both capture some perceptions and opinions on the use and potential mining of Critical Minerals in New Zealand and broader social issues. The analysis of our primary data identified four broad themes to participant comments: (1) the need to balance trade-offs in the transition to a net zero carbon economy, (2) sustainability and circular economy discourses, (3) the need for decision makers to address social responsibility concerns, particularly towards indigenous communities, and (4) feedback on actions the government could be taking (auths)
