The United States rejection of the Kyoto Protocol for the reduction of greenhouse gases means New Zealand should reassess its position on climate change controls, and not try to go it alone, the Employers & Manufacturers Association says.

"In light of the US position on greenhouse gas emissions we need now to think long and carefully about how we can affect world opinion on the issue," said Alasdair Thompson, EMA's chief executive.

"We urge Government to reassess New Zealand's position on this, because realistically, if the US is not involved, the protocol won't work.

"For our struggling economy to keep on growing we cannot afford to penalise our exporters unilaterally with new taxes or other controls designed to limit carbon emissions before our major trading partners do.

"Government has acknowledged that delivering on ways to reduce greenhouse gases has become core business for it, but it has also started to demonstrate a commendable capacity to listen and consult widely.

"For example, it has indicated it is open to discussing the timing and methods whereby we set out to reach the targets for lower emissions set out in the Protocol.

"Following the US decision, we urge the Government to reassess where we are going with this critical issue."

Further comments: Alasdair Thompson tel 09 367 0911

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